James "Jimmy" Ross Smith

James (Jimmy) Ross Smith

Kempt Head/ North Sydney

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James “Jimmy” Smith, 82, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend on Saturday, February 1, 2020.

Born in North Sydney, August 14, 1937, Jimmy was the son of the late Robert B. “Bob” and Helen (Bigney) Smith. He was a member of St. Matthew Wesley United Church, North Sydney. Jimmy will be greatly missed by the love of his life and soul-mate Mary (MacLeod) Smith, his wife of 60 years; his children Debbie (Eugene) Murphy, North Sydney, Barbara (Edward) Gyongyossy, Burlington, ON, and Robert (Stella) Smith, North Sydney; his beautiful granddaughters, Megan (Zach Sutherland) and Olivia, who filled his life with joy, smiles, and laughter; his brothers David, Delaware and Bruce (Carol), Edmonton; sister-in-law Emily Smith, North Sydney; many nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of great friends.

Besides his parents, Jimmy was predeceased by his infant son Kenneth; siblings Roberta Sicotte, Peggy Wilkie, Norman, and Kenneth (in infancy); brothers-in-law Lloyd Wilkie, Marcel Sicotte, sister-in-law Donna Smith; father and mother-in-law Dan and Janet MacLeod; and daughter-in-law Kelly (Penny) Smith.

Dad was very active his whole life. He began his career in the Navy and then he worked as an agent for Imperial Oil for many years. Always community-minded, he served as president of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, parade master and organizer of the Smelt Brook Park revitalization for which his hard work was recognized, a long-time member and president of the Seaview Curling Club, a worthy grand patron of the Royal Albert Masonic Lodge, and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 19, North Sydney, where in later years he also served as bartender (a job he loved).

Dad loved to debate politics and he had a passion for history. He was happiest outdoors enjoying nature and he made many trips to Newfoundland fishing and hunting.

At 65, Dad and Mom retired to their dream property in Kempt Head. This by no means slowed him down. He created a legendary garden which he nurtured proudly. He generously shared the fruits of his labours with family and friends as well as the pickles and jellies he bottled. Summers were filled with cookouts, parties, and fun “out the country”. Everyone was welcome, Dad loved company and entertaining. For many years Dad and Mom enjoyed wintering in Florida where they made more good friends through their very active social life.

Mom and Dad shared a deep, special bond; they were always together. Dad’s family meant everything to him and we are so proud to call him our Dad. Remember his jokes, wit, and charm. Rest in peace Dad…you will always be in our hearts.

Visitation for Jim will be held from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Friday, February 7th, in the W.J Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant St., North Sydney. A funeral service will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Matthew Wesley United Church with Rev. Stephen Mills officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Cancer Centre or any charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.wjdooley.com

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