James E. "Jim" Smith

PHELPS – James E. "Jim" Smith, age 89, of Phelps, N.Y., passed away on August 12, 2025.

Jim was born on March 31, 1936 in Geneva, N.Y. He was the son of the late James and Doris Fitton Smith. He graduated from Geneva High School in 1954 and joined the United States Army, serving in Taiwan in signals intelligence where he monitored troop movements.

Following his military service, Jim returned to Geneva and enjoyed a distinguished career with UPS, driving double tractor trailers on the night shift for more than three decades. He was honored with UPS's Circle of Honor recognition for over 25 years of accident free driving; a testament to his dedication and professionalism.

In 1982, he married Helen Doyle, who proceeded him in death in 2023. She was the light of his life, and together they shared a love of boating on the Finger Lakes, time at their home in Pinellas County Florida, camping and traveling in their motorhome, and most of all, cherished family moments. Jim was a man of faith, becoming baptized as an adult at Clifton Springs United Methodist Church after witnessing his granddaughter's baptism.

He is survived by his children, Kathleen (Thomas) Nicholson, Maryann (John) Herkimer, Elizabeth (John) Rozaklis, and Stephen (Jackie) Doyle; his grandchildren, Colleen (Ken) Gill, Vann (Lindsay) Nicholson, Melissa (Mike) Palma, Erin Herkimer, Jillian (Anthony) Ferra, Alexander (Marissa) Rozaklis, Morgan (Jeff) Kowalski, Ryan Doyle, Caitlyn (Jake) Catalioto, and Grace "Pepper" Doyle; his great-grandchildren, Conley and Piper Nicholson, Nicholas and Jack Palma, Kyrill and Zoe Gill, Novella Ferra, Thomas and Daniel Kowalski, and Baby Catalioto on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his beloved wife Helen, Jim was predeceased by his brothers, Lewis, William, and Robert Smith; and his sisters, Sarah "Sally" Handlan, Doris Pietrosanti, Gertrude Sheets, and Ellen Arndt.

In keeping with Jim's wishes, the family will hold a private graveside service with Military Honors.

Jim will be remembered for his faith, loyalty, kindness, and the joy he brought to family and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home.

For those wishing to write a note of condolence to the family, please visit www.devaneybennettfh.com