James R. Smith, 74

April 04, 2016

James R. Smith, 74, of Lititz passed away on Monday, April 4, 2016 at his home. Born in Manheim, PA he was the son of the late Benjamin and Minnie (Hoffer) Smith.

He worked for the former Alumax/Alcoa as a maintenance worker retiring after 40 years of service.

Jim (J.R.) was a resident of Manheim Borough for many years and was a huge supporter of the Manheim Central Barons football team. He was voted the #1 Barons football fan by the community several years ago. Over the years, he became a permanent fixture at every MC football game, home or away, as well as the pre-season practices. He enjoyed meeting up with his friends at the diner, especially “Derb”, to talk about the season. He was an avid fan of many other sports and loved the Miami Dolphins and the Philadelphia Phillies. Jim also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

J.R. will always be remembered for his love of life; sitting by the pool with his family over the summer and joining any party taking place – always ending up being the life of the party; making sure all bird feeders were full every day; reminding his grandchildren to check the oil in their cars every day as well; frequently calling his daughter at work to let her know how many eggs the chickens had laid; and most of all, his love for Heinz Ketchup.

He was a member of the Del-A-Ches Fishing Club, Elstonville Sportsman club and the Germania Band club of Manheim.

Surviving is a daughter, Lori, wife of Scott Eelman of Lititz and a son, Jim Smith of East Petersburg. Also surviving are four grandchildren; Heather, wife of Joe Keating; Ryan and his fiancé, Gabby Kitch; Sydney, Hunter, and Jim’s former wife and best friend, Laura Smith of Manheim. J.R. also leaves behind his siblings, Shirley, Wayne, Robert, Hoffer, Helen and Darlene. He was preceded in death by his five siblings, Benjamin, Gene, Jay, Ruth and Lorraine. J.R. had many relatives whom he loved dearly including his sister-in-law, Carol West; nephew Bruce West, wife of Sharon Fridy West, and his children, Justin, Dalton, Kyler and Jenna; and brother-in-law, Bob West of Florida.

Services and Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the Manheim Touchdown Club, P.O. Box 361 Manheim, PA 17545.