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BORN
1928
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2015
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Earl Smith Obituary
Earl John Smith Jr., born in Hartford February 21, 1928, to the late Earl J. and Ethel (Tormay) Smith, died Thursday, October 22nd at 3:13pm at Danbury Hospital. He is survived by his loving wife, Vera, of fifty years, daughter Judith, son Earl and his wife Kathleen, and son Joseph.
He was born in Hartford, CT. Early in life, he attended St. Thomas Seminary. He served honorably as a Chaplain's assistant in Germany during the Korean Conflict. Upon returning to the United States, he attended both Fairfield University and Trinity College and earned a Masters Degree in Education. He found his calling in Newtown, CT as a Latin and English teacher at the High School. Soon he became an Assistant Principal, watching out for "his kids" until he retired in 1991. With great joy, he attended all reunions to which he was invited. As a member of the teachers union, he spent a lifetime fighting for teachers' rights. He had many long hours after work helping to negotiate contracts for both teachers and administrators. Upon retirement, he became President of both the Association of Retired Teachers and the Northern Fairfield County Retired Teachers Association, taking great pride in his contributions to help protect teachers' pensions. He served as Chairman of the Newtown Democratic Town Committee for many years and never lost an opportunity to remind people he was still Chairman Emeritus. In 2011, he was a Jefferson Jackson Bailey honoree. He remained active in state, local and federal politics to his last day. He also was a proud member and past president of the Rotary Club of Newtown, with decades of service. Most important to him was his dedication to the Catholic Church. He faced life with honesty, integrity, and a willingness to fight any battle for a good cause. Friends may call at the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown Monday October 26th from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Rose of Lima Church, Newtown Tuesday October 27th at 10:30am. Interment will follow in St. Rose Cemetery. Donations to the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 344, Newtown, CT 06470 will be appreciated by Earl's family.
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Memories and Condolences
for Earl Smith
October 28, 2015
I called him Mr Smith while attending NHS.He really was a great human being.Im sorry about his passing Peter Falvey
Paul Stringer
October 28, 2015
I worked with Earl as a negotiator for the Ct. Federation of School Administrators during the late 80s and early 90s. He was one of my mentors in the art of contract negotiations and I learned from Earl much of what I continue to use today as I negotiate for school administrators. A great man who will be sorely missed! Our condolences and prayers to the family of Earl Smith.
Paul Stringer, CFSA Vice President
Sue Page Krager
October 26, 2015
Mr. Smith was one of my favorite teachers. My deepest sympathy to the Smith family.
Sue Page Krager class of 1965
Al and Gail Cashman
October 26, 2015
Dear Vera and family..."Earl the Pearl" as I often referred to him was indeed a unique, understanding, compassionate, fun guy. Earl was also a mentor to me and to others throughout our days as Educators. Earl was largely responsible for encouraging my position on the Zoning Board of Appeals for which am grateful...You are all in our prayers...God Bless
Elaine White
October 26, 2015
I graduated NHS in 1963. Earl was one of my favorite teachers. I took English and Latin classes from him. I recall his openness, his fun and his balanced approach. I'm sorry he no longer walks the walk and talks the talk on this earth plane. So sorry for your loss.
Elaine Michel White
Debbie Barker (Lajoie)
October 26, 2015
My prayers go out to all of the Smith family. I highly respected Mr. Smith through my school years and felt comfortable being able to talk to him. He will be missed
Kaback Family
October 26, 2015
To The Family of Earl Smith, Jr.,
We are very sorry for your loss. Earl was a very close friend to my Dad, Norman Kaback. We know they are now having some laughs together. Our thoughts and prayers to you.
Wendyann Fowler
October 26, 2015
Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, a great man, Wendyann Fowler, Naugatuck, CT
Guy DiNocenza
October 25, 2015
I am saddened to read of Earl's passing. He and I were close friends during our grammar school days at St. Patrick's in Hartford, and I knew his sisters and parents quite well. I visited them often on Chestnut St. And Albany Ave. We last met at a class reunion a few years ago, and had some fond reminiscences. May he rest in peace and God bless all of you.
Jack Parkinson
October 25, 2015
Sorry for your loss. Dana will watch over him for you. Our kids John and Jodi send their condolences also.
Val Monsanto-Taft
October 25, 2015
I'm so sorry to read of Mr. Smith's passing. He was a man with great compassion and integrity. I was always happy to see him as I went through NHS and for many years afterward!!! May your family find comfort that he was such a man that many many people loved!!
Mindy Linderman James
October 25, 2015
Sending thoughts and prayers to Judy and the family. I am so sorry for your loss.
October 25, 2015
Earl was a true gentleman and I feel blessed having known him.
Bill Brimmer, Newtown,CT
George Stowe
October 24, 2015
Dear Mrs Smith and family, Mr Smith was a very professional educator to many students. He was our Vice Principal, but more like our friend. You both were great neighbors to my family. May faith be your support at this difficult time.
Linda Hobbs Buonagurio
October 24, 2015
You were also in charge of the Debate Club and came to my classroom to instruct them in proper procedure- always the teacher and friend.So many fond memories of a life well-lived.
Joe Notarnicola
October 24, 2015
It's been years since I've been back to Newtown. I will miss Mr. Smith being a part of my home town. My thoughts and prayers are with the Smith family!
Susan Zacher Krushenski
October 24, 2015
Condolences sent to the Smith family. He was my HS Vice Principal and was always ready to help his students. He will be sadly missed.
Kathy Swift
October 24, 2015
I am saddened to hear of Earl's passing. I was a first year teacher when he was an assistant principal. I loved his way of dealing with the students and supporting the teachers. Through the 30 years, whenever I saw Earl at retirement or Rotary events, he was so generous and kind. He always shared what his kids were doing and how proud he was of them. May your faith be a support to all of you now.
Tiny Bagmeyer
October 24, 2015
RIP Mr Smith
October 24, 2015
RIP Mr Smith a 1972 graduate of newtown high...
October 23, 2015
Eileen Gaynor - Thoughts & Prayers to you & your family!
October 23, 2015
Sending my deepest condolences to the Smith family. Janet Seligmann Weiss
October 23, 2015
RIP!!
Alice Richards
October 23, 2015
So sorry for your lose R.I.P
Michelle Foley
October 23, 2015
Rest In Peace Mr. Smith. You will be missed by many. My Condolences to your Family & Friends.
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