Contributions to the tribute of James J. Smith

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Wednesday, March 8, 2023

He was an amazing principle.

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Robert posted a condolence

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Mr. smith was my elementary school principal in the 80’s. I will never forget him. He always went to the wantagh high school graduation as well to see his students graduate. Amazing man. He is missed.

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Joanna Burlew (Miller) lit a candle

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

R.I.P. Mr. Smith. I was so lucky to have you as my principal at Forest Lake Elementary school. You left a lasting impression on every life that you touched. The kindness you showed all the families at school is still talked about to this day. You are and always will be the one person that EVERYONE remembers. I'm so happy to have gotten an opportunity to catch up with you last year at Forest Lake and introduce you to my daughter. Our deepest condolences to the Smith family. You were truly blessed to have such an amazing man in your life. He will be missed and always remembered.

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Mike Morena lit a candle

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

To the family of Mr. James J. Smith. I am so sorry to hear about the loss of a great man. I too was fortunate to have him as a principal at Forest Lake in the early 70's. My Mother just adored him as well because of his kindness and personal attention he had given. I do recall the whistle, it was loud. My Condolences to all. He will be missed.Thank you Mr. Smith.

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Rob lit a candle

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

If you were lucky enough to go to Forest lake School in the 1980's, then you had the pleasure of knowing Mr Smith. Mr Smith was a kind man who made every individual feel special, and part of something great. Despite a large school (k-6 at the time) Mr Smith knew everyone's name and never forgot it. He knew how important that is for a child's self esteem. If ever there was someone perfectly suited for his work, it was Mr Smith.

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Ron Rowland posted a condolence

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

RIP Mr. Smith Thank you for guiding me at Forest Lake Elementary School from kindergarten to sixth grade way back in 1982. I will always remember you and a positive force in my young life when I received the JFK award even though I was sick in 6th grade with mono. I also remember when you came to see me graduate Wantagh High School in 1988 and you would be proud to know that I am a teacher now in New York City. Thank you for everything Ronald R. Rowland

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Allison L posted a condolence

Monday, March 9, 2020

Mr. Smith was my principal at Forest Lake. The absolute sweetest man with the loud whistle. I remember getting a pencil for my birthday from him as the highlight of my day. May God welcome him home with open arms. Mr. Smith you were a one of a kind man an angel on earth. Sleep easy and may your family find peace during this difficult time.

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Laura Procida Burns posted a condolence

Monday, March 9, 2020

To the family of "Mr. Smith": My family and I are so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I am one of the thousands of former students of Forest Lake Elementary School, from which I graduated in '93. Your father continues to be someone that my entire family (there were 5 of us who traveled through his elementary school) speak so fondly of. He was an extraordinary man and one who left an undeniable impression on his students. His catch phrase of "Forest Lake is a Feeling" and his tradition of the Friday morning birthday recognition (complete with an imprinted colored pencil with the school slogan) remains one of my cherished memories. I wish your family peace and that your memories give you comfort. Most Sincere, Laura Procida Burns

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The family of James J. Smith uploaded a photo

Monday, March 9, 2020

James J. Smith

1926 - 2020

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