James Earl Smith, Sr.

James Earl Smith, Sr., 90, of Plum Borough, passed away peacefully at home, Tuesday, October 28, 2025, after a long life filled with love, laughter, and hard work.   

Kind. Hardworking. Humorous. Devoted.  

A proud Mason, James believed in building more than just structures - he built a life grounded in kindness, integrity and family.  

He was known for his quick wit, generous heart, and the way he could fix just about anything.  A devoted father, James leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and memories that will never fade.  His tools may be at rest, but his light will always shine on in the hearts of those who knew him.  

He was born May 6, 1935 in Indianola, to the late William & Ivy Medley Smith, and was a 1954 graduate of Washington H.S. Voc. in Harmar Township.

James started work at Mine Safety Appliance in Murrysville sweeping floors at the age of 16, and retired in 1996, as a tool and die maker.  

He was a longtime member and Past Master of Plum Creek #799, Free & Accepted Masons.

His three children survive him, Debra Appel and husband Ron Nestor, James E. Smith, Jr., and Janet L. Smith-Pent (Dave); and four grandchildren, Elyssa, Tyler, Ashley and Kristi.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Shirley Golian Smith in 2015; and brothers, Charles & William Smith.

Viewing will be on Saturday, November 1, from 10AM until 12 NOON when services will be conducted by Pastor Dean Ward in ROSS G. WALKER FUNERAL HOME LTD., 217 Freeport Road, New Kensington.  Plum Creek 799 Free & Accepted Masons will assemble in the funeral home at 11:30 AM to pay tribute to their fallen member.  Burial will follow in Plum Creek Cemetery, Plum Borough.   
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Earl Smith, Sr., please visit our floral store.