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Jeffrey Randall Smith
Jeffrey Randall Smith
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Jeffrey Smith Obituary
Jeffrey Randall Smith met his wife, Ellen Bakalian, eight years ago, while on a diving vacation on Turks and Caicos Islands. Later, he taught her to hunt lobsters and she taught him to sail. She shared her love of medieval poetry; he reciprocated with an appreciation of the Hurricanes, the University of Miami football team.
He lived in Florida, she lived in New York. Hired in 1996 by Sandler O'Neill, Mr. Smith, an equity research analyst, moved to Manhattan. He loved showing friends the view from his office on the 104th floor of 2 World Trade Center.
After Mr. Smith, 36, and Ms. Bakalian were married in 1997, parenthood was the next great exploration. Daughter Margaret was born in 1998, and two years later came Charlotte. Both are November babies.
The family traveled to Europe and went camping, though perhaps their fondest memories are of summers spent sailing, swimming and canoeing at Green Pond in New Jersey. "We were going to put Maggie on skis this year and I'm still going to do it," Ms. Bakalian said.
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Ian Shakil
September 11, 2020
Just thinking about Jeff today.
Very appreciative of the Jeffrey Randall Smith scholarship - and what it stands for.
Gary Corless
December 31, 2018
Jeff and I wrestled together in high school. Took my family to to the 9/11 Memorial today. So incredibly sad. I pray for your wife and girls Jeff. Surely they have your incredible spirit.
Bill (Sully) Sullivan
September 13, 2018
To the "Stone" - always the first to the bottom on every dive - Jay and I would look at each other and then try to catch up (or down as it was). Jay just shared this site with me for this the 17th anniversary of that dispicable day. As many have written, I, too had not kept in touch with Jeff which is my loss but I knew through others that he was doing great with a loving wife and daughters and, as usual, a success in his career. I was on 23rd St that day which is still the worst day of my life. Once I knew Jeff had been lost, my lunchtime runs past Ground Zero for the next few years never failed to bring me to tears while I said a prayer for my lost dive buddy and friend. I'd listen to 1010 WINS reading of the names each anniversary until they got to Jeffrey R Smith. You were a good man. RIP "Stone".
September 11, 2016
remembered
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My brother and my daughter
Jerry Smith
August 24, 2015
William Rich
September 11, 2013
It has now been 12 years since that horrible day. I still recall the phone call where I was told that Jeff was missing. I kept hoping that I would receive a second call that Jeff was ok but it never came. Jeff and I were first cousins born less than one month apart. His daughters are growing up to be beautiful young women and I know Jeff is soo proud but I wish he could be here to see them. We will never forget Jeff and his zest for life.
Jay Busker
September 11, 2012
Another year and more memories of my friend keep coming back to me. I wish we could talk. It would be amazing to share stories about our girls and how big they are getting or talk about how screwed up the mortgage and banking businesses have become. I think about you all the time, but on this and every anniversary I shed a tear and think what it might be like if my friend Jeff were still alive. I miss you.
Margie
September 5, 2011
I just read the story in LHJ (September 2011). My heart goes out to you and your family. May God wrap his arms around you and give you Peace
Jerry Leigh Stokes Jr
September 12, 2009
I worked with Jeff at J. I. Kislak Mortgage Corporation in the early 1990's. I always remembered Jeff because he was a jolly guy always joking around. I will miss him very much and I offer my condolences to his family on this the eigth anniversary of that tragic day where as Americans we were all affected in some way. God Bless You Jeff.
Varun Kapoor
August 30, 2009
I was also a recipient of the Jeffrey Randall Smith Memorial Scholarship - in 2004. I graduated that year from Jeff's old high school in Coral Springs, FL: J.P. Taravella High School, and went on to the University of Florida where I received a degree in Integrative Biology. I am now in medical school, where I hope to do what I said I would do when being interviewed for that honorable scholarship 5 years ago: help others and alleviate their suffering.
Today, I came across a blog on the internet in which a journal-type description of Jeff is described following his tragic loss. Reading about Jeff and his family really made me self-reflect and allowed me to retrace my steps from the person I was to the person I am today.
I am deeply sorry for Jeff's tragic loss, and I wish the best for his family. His memory and the scholarship which I received will serve as a symbol to me and many others as a testament to assist those in need and make their lives better.
Ian Shakil
August 30, 2009
I received the Jeffrey Randall Smith Memorial Scholarship in 2002 — when I was a graduating senior at J.P. Taravella High School. I’ve since gone on to enjoy a flourishing career in the biomedical field after graduating from Duke University.
Of all of the honors that I’ve received, the Jeffrey Randall Smith Memorial Scholarship is by far the most meaningful. I can’t think of a more beautiful way to honor his spirit than to inspire the next generation through a memorial scholarship.
My sincerest condolences go out to Jeff’s family. I hope it’s uplifting for you to know that his memory still lives on — permeating in ways that we cannot image — and serving as a force for good.
Mike Erb
October 9, 2008
I met Jeff and his wife Ellen thru Jeff’s brother Jerry. I was in Philly for the evening after a week long workshop with Jerry for work. Jerry and his wife, Jeff and Ellen and I went out for dinner to a Spanish Steak house in town. Jeff loved baseball and since I was from Cincinnati, we talked Reds and Mike Schmidt wiht the Phillies. Jeff new more about my team, than anyone I ever new. He new the past and current players. Jeff was a huge fan of Pete Rose and Mike Schmidt (and Ohio boy.) In the few short hours we talked, I knew he was a special person. Ellen, you daughters should be proud they had a father who touched the lives of many people in a positive way including mine. Many blessing.
Mike
Geoffrey Negin
September 15, 2007
Jeff was one of dearest friends in the world. I will always cary his memory with me.
William Rich
September 11, 2007
Jeff was my first cousin and we were both the same age. It is hard to believe that it has been 6 years since that horrible day. Alot has changed since that fateful day. My first child was born on July 30th this year and his middle name is after Jeff. I just wish that Jeff was here to see him. We miss you Jeff!!!
kristine
August 19, 2007
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
March 15, 2007
In remembrance....
September 11, 2003
MEMORY ETERNAL. REST IN PEACE, JEFF.
Debra Rubin-Kalina
September 11, 2003
My heartfelt sympathy goes out the Jeff and his entire family. I attended High School with Jeff in Coral Springs. He truly was a special person and always had a way to make you smile. I will always smile when I think of him. As a new mom myself, I now understand how difficult it must be for his wife and children. You are lucky to have had him in your lives and in your hearts forever.
Jennifer Robles
February 6, 2003
Hi.
I'm a single parent from Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY and I can sincerely say that not a day goes by when I don't think about that terrible day.
I find myself looking up at the sky and trying to seek a reason as to why??
I saw in the NY Post today your husband has been found. At least you can finally have some closure.
I'm sure that while it may not be a comfort, at least you can have something to connect with.
I commend your bravery and pray that God will bless you and your family to prevail.
Sincerely, Jennifer
Jenna L.
September 12, 2002
To Jeffrey's Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. My school in Tampa, Florida, did a thing where we put a ribbon on our shirt and on the ribbon it had a name of a person who died on 9-11. I happened to get your husband. And i wanted you to read this and know that my prayers and my families prayers go out to you and your family. May God Bless you forever!!!!
David A. Lee
September 11, 2002
On this anniversary of Jeff's death I write to share in Ellen's grief and to offer support as she raises her two beautiful daughters. I will never forget seeing Ellen, Jeff and Maggie ("Buttercup" to me!) on their frequent walks along the roads at Green Pond (before Charlotte was born). All the best to the three of you. Jeff will never be forgotten.
([email protected])
JIM & BETTY MORRIS
September 10, 2002
you must know that our prayers and thoughts are with you.
we love you and the girls.
Janet Roth
September 9, 2002
Our thoughts and love are always with Ellen and to Jeffs parents, Madeline and Buzz and the girls.
Sandra O'Donnell
September 7, 2002
To Ellen,
Thanks for sharing a little bit about your extraordinary life with Jeff. I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that you can email me anytime and thank you for your moving story in Ladies Home Journel. You have inspired me and Jeff has inspired me to live life to the fullest.
love
Sandra
Lisa Nockowitz Hutcherson
September 5, 2002
I am saddened by this whole thing. I remember Jeff so well from the temple jewish groups and high school. He attended all the functions that we had and had a blast. In school, he was on the football team and I was on the drillteam. Whenever he had practice, I remember him hollering out in the hallways: "I am coming!" I guess he was just always late for practice or something. His friends and coach just stood there and laughed. HA HA He always had this huge grin on his face. He was the happiest kid I ever knew. I loved when he blushed. The girls used to say to him: OOOH! and pinched his cheeks. He was very caring. No matter what, he would try to be there for you. I remember seeing someone drop their books in the hallways and he was just stop at whatever he was doing and pick those books up without asking. He would just do it. I would definitely say that he had a heart of gold. I feel so sad for his parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, wife and 2 beautiful kids. I just don't know what I can do for you and say anymore but just light a candle and pray.... GOD BLESS.... Lisa Nockowitz Hutcherson from Sunrise, Florida. [email protected]
William Rich
September 5, 2002
It has been almost one year since Jeff was killed in the World Trade Center. Jeff and I were first cousins and were born less than 2 weeks apart. We grew up in different parts of the country but whenever we got together we had a great time. We used to joke when we were younger who had more freckles. Jeff was always a very caring loving person who adored his family, his wife Ellen and his two daughters Maggie and Charlotte. He was very close with his parents, Madeline and Buzz and with brother Jerry and his sister Brenda. He always attended family events and whenever any of the family was in New York, he would make time to see them. He always invited his family and friends up to see his office in the World Trade Center. He was very proud his office and all he had accomplished at work but he was most proud of his family. He would send out digital pictures to allow everyone to see how the girls were growing up. You always looked forward to getting the e-mails from Jeff to hear about his latest vacation adventures.
Jeff - You would be proud of how Ellen has stayed strong and how lovely your two daughters have become.
You are missed greatly by your entire family and friends - God Bless You
Tiffany Glenn
August 26, 2002
I had the privilege of meeting Jeff approximately one month before his death on September 11. His firm was considering following my company's stock as part of their bank porfolio.
I met with Jeff for approximately 2 hours, and he spent approximately half of that time talking about his beautiful children. My office is full of pictures of my son, which made him think of his daughters. We had such a great conservation discussing the joys of parenthood. In this short time, I could tell that he was a wonderful father and loving husband.
During this time, he also invited me, and my family, to stop by his office to enjoy the beautiful view the next we were in NY. He was very proud of his job and its rewards.
I hardly knew Jeff at all, but I wanted to share my thoughts so that his wife and daughters would know that he was always thinking of them while he was away. I'm sure he is doing the same thing today. I am very sorry for your loss.
Carolyn Weinstein
August 21, 2002
My fear has just been confirmed. The Jeff Smith I knew in high school in Coral Springs was the same Jeff Smith killed at 2 WTC on September 11, 2001. What a tremendous tragedy. I am so sorry to hear this sad news.
Jeff and I ran around with the same group of Jewish kids in high school and shared many classes. I can easily recall hanging out with him and other football players during the season. My heart goes out to his parents, wife and daughters.
Chris Tull
August 21, 2002
I learned much too late that Jeff wall killed on September 11. Jeff was a great teammate and friend at Taravella, HS. He will be missed
Angie Campbell
May 16, 2002
May God Bless the family and friends that you left behind on 9/11/01. May you rest in peace forever more.
May 6, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN..JEFFREY RANDALL SMITH AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS.GOD BLESS HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN...FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK.MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Suzette Moore
March 19, 2002
I learned of your son's death last night while I was watching the story on the news...I felt compelled to tell you how sorry I am for your loss...No parent should ever have to bury their child.... I have a dear friend who recently lost her 7 year old son to cancer...In his short life he left so many of us with inspiration and courage and admiration for his brave fight...he never complained of the pain or ever asked why him...Although the parents are still suffering terribly from their loss they find comfort and strenght from friends and family. My sister is in the process of trying to have a park in Homestead named after him...I think it is a wonderful idea of the Tennis program in honor of your son...He looked like a beautiful person as I'm sure he was.......This comes from a total stranger but I hope you find some comfort in knowing people care and I'm so sorry for your loss..........
Kathleen Ewald
February 9, 2002
I just learned the other day, in the new issue of Rochester Review, that my classmate from UR '87 Jeff Smith died on 9.11. I remember him as very sweet. God bless.
Keith
February 9, 2002
I use to go the same high school as Jeff. JP Taravella in Coral Springs. We both were in Palmach together. I use to buy ice cream and play video games at his parent's ice cream store on Sample Road. I wish the very best for his wife and children he left behind.
Susan Santos Carey
January 23, 2002
I just learned yesterday, 1/22/02, (through my quarterly alumni college magazine)that a special friend of mine, Ellen Bakalian, had lost her husband, Jeff, on September 11th. Ellen was my "little sister" in sorority at Gettysburg College. Although I graduated in 1979 (three years before Ellen), we kept in contact over the years. I had the distinct pleasure of meeting this special guy, Jeff, over the phone one night in a wonderful 20 minute conversation I had with him. I had called to congratulate the two of them on their pending marriage. I had heard so much about Jeff from Ellen. To you Ellen, I say, you are blessed to have Maggie and Charlotte in your life who will always be those physical and emotional links to those parts of Jeff that you so cherished. To you Jeff, I say, you leave behind three remarkable females who have and will continue to do you proud. Susan Santos Carey
Barbara Friedman
January 15, 2002
I was so shocked and saddened when I read the portrait about Jeffrey. I
worked with his wife, Ellen, at ABC, and remember how excited she was about her family. Please know we are all thinking of you Ellen. You and your kids have great strength and spirit,
Barbara Friedman
Art Rice
January 11, 2002
I have fond memories of working with Jeff in Miami. We had many a late night of both work and play. Jeff was "one of the guy's". He was a fast learner with a work ethic most people could not compete with.
Many of us were single and from all over the country, so naturally our work lives spilled into our social lives and we all spent a lot of time together.
All of us have gone our separate ways, but somehow have stayed in touch. Jeff and I met mostly in airports over the last three years. It was usually a quick “How are you?” “How’s the family?” etc. He was most proud of his beautiful family seemed very comfortable with who he was and where he was in his life.
To his family, I offer my sympathy and prayers. Please continue to live your lives as Jeff would have, with a lust for living life to the max and sincere love for each other.
Art, Bill S., Bill N., Scott C., Jay B., Rick R., Mike K., to name a few……
Teresa Jahn
December 11, 2001
I am sure Maggie will be a natural on skis with parents as adventurous as you and Jeffrey. Thank you for sharing a part of his life with the world in your story. We are so very sorry for your loss. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
David DuBose
December 1, 2001
I used to work with Jeff in Florida. He was a great guy. He was smart and worked hard, but he also loved to live it up and enjoy himself.
Every now and then we would go scuba diving on Saturday mornings and grill burgers in the afternoon.
I suppose we all tend to take things like that for granted, but looking back I know those were really great times.
Our lives went different directions years ago. We really didn't stay in touch very well. Then last month happened, and I was so sad to hear about it. I wish I had at least made a catch up call.
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