James J. Smith, whose zest for life, kind spirit and warm heart served as an inspiration to many, died Sunday in Carmel Richmond Health Care & Rehabilitation Center, where he was making strides on his journey to recovery from the coronavirus. He was 79.
Known simply as “Jim,” the exemplary community leader often dubbed “The Mayor of Staten Island” and the “Father of Gay Pride,” was known for his passion to enhance local causes, from the Knights of Columbus to the Miss Staten Island Pageant to counseling the drug-and alcohol-addicted.
A Celebration of James' life will be held at a safer date.
In Lieu of flowers, donations to Broadwaycares.org in Jim's memory would be greatly appreciated.
