Edwin L. "Pop-Pop" Smith

SMITH, EDWIN L., (Pop-Pop), 83 - of Brigantine, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, at his home, on Sunday October 19, 2008. Born on July 27, 1925 in Atlantic City to Florence and William Smith. Ed attended Atlantic City public school prior to his enlistment in the US Navy. Ed served his country proudly aboard the USS Thornhill receiving numerous medals and ribbons. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Upon returning home to Atlantic City he met and married Gloria Messina (LaRocca) with whom he had three children. They moved to Brigantine in the early 1960's to raise their family. Ed continued the family tradition of being an electrician as well as a Jitney driver in the early days. Throughout his career he worked mostly for his family's business until his retirement earlier this year from Sherwood Electric. Ed loved sports especially the racetrack and the Eagles. Sunday football was a tradition at his home. He enjoyed traveling with his family, most recently to Disney World in May. Nothing gave him greater joy than being surrounded by family and friends; watching the game and listening to Sinatra he will be sadly missed. Ed was predeceased by brothers Bill and Charles Smith and his sister Shirley Benton. He is survived by his three children Gloria (Bob) Riley, Patty (Ed) Lick and Rick (Clair) Smith, his grandchildren Michelle Ho, Christine (John) Angelastino, Bobby (Chrissy) Riley, Eddie and Mikey Lisk, his great grandchildren Ashley, Nicole, Francesco, Gabriella, RJ, and Jesse. He's also survived by many nieces and nephews especially Brian Smith and Rennie Toner and his sister Betty Channel. Relatives and friends are invited to Ed's Life Celebration Thursday 11:00 AM from Keates /Plum of Brigantine, 3112 Brigantine Ave. followed by service 12:30 PM interment Laurel memorial park.