James E. Smith, 82, adoring father, grandfather and friend, of Bellefonte, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, Saturday, January 9, 2016, at the Mount Nittany Medical Center in College Township. Born on February 7, 1933, in Bellefonte, he was the son of the late John W. Smith and Louise Praskewych. He married Shirley Dickson Smith, his ex-wife, who preceded him in death in 2003.
He was a 1950 graduate of the Bellefonte Area High School.
James worked as a State College Police officer for over 20 years. He then worked as a Lieutenant at the Centre County Prison until his retirement in 2010.
James was a Veteran who served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.
He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Bellefonte.
James was also a lifetime member of the Bellefonte Undines, a member of the Fraternal Order of the Police, and he belonged to the American Legion Traveling Band.
He loved life, cadillacs, trips to Disney, making people laugh, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by two daughters: Onna Benzie and her husband Sam of Bellefonte and Tammie King and her partner David Miller of Bellefonte, one son, Shaun Smith and his wife Jackie of Bellefonte, two grandchildren: Brandy Roane and Lance King, three great-grandchildren: Mia Roane, Alexa Roane, and Olivia King and his grand puppies.
In addition to his parents and ex-wife he was preceded in death by one brother, Donald (Duffy) Smith and a step-father, Mike Praskewych.
Services and burial will be private at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to P.A.W.S at 1042 Benner Pike, State College, PA, 16801.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc., in Bellefonte.