This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.
06/01/2023 11:58 AMJames Edward “Jim” Smith Jr., 82, passed away on May 14, in Punta Gorda, Florida. Born on Sept. 8, 1940, in New Haven. Jim, as he was known to his family and friends, was a beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather.
Jim graduated from East Haven High School in 1958. Upon graduating, Jim served in the United States Air Force from 1958 to 1962, stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. After his service, he joined the East Haven Fire Department (EHFD), eventually rising to the rank of Battalion Chief. Upon retirement from the EHFD, he started his own company, High Tech Fire Protection, before retiring to Florida.
An avid golfer, Jim also enjoyed watching football and basketball. He was a serious participant in fantasy sports leagues. Jim loved music, especially ABBA. He also played the guitar and dabbled on the organ.
Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia Smith; his children, James D. Smith (Anne), Paula Selmquist (Kurt), and Michael Smith (Anissa); his grandchildren: Sarah, Michael, Mark, Kayla, and MacKenzie; his brother Glenn Smith and sister-in-law Sandy; and his sister Priscilla (Smith) Musco. He was preceded in death by his daughter Kelly Smith; his second wife, Dorothy Smith; his father, James E. Smith Sr.; as well as his mother, Mildred Stokes; and stepfather Henry Stokes.
A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 16, at Stony Creek Congregational Church, 192 Thimble Island Road, Branford.