Arthur Smart

Arthur Cornelius Smart, affectionately known as "Jimmy," of Springfield, Massachusetts, USA, formerly of Greggs, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, departed this life on Monday, March 9, 2026, at approximately 7:00 p.m., at the age of 81.

Jimmy was born on March 27, 1945, in Greggs, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. From a young age he demonstrated discipline, intelligence, and a strong work ethic that would characterize his life.

He attended the Lowman's Windward Anglican Primary School, where he excelled academically. Upon successfully passing his School Leaving Examinations, he returned to the same institution to serve as a teacher for several years, contributing to the education and development of young minds in his community.

Jimmy later joined the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force. During his training at the Regional Police Training Centre in Barbados, he graduated with top honors as Best Recruit. He quickly distinguished himself in the force and rose to the rank of Sergeant, serving primarily in the Traffic Department.

Driven by his dedication to professional excellence, he pursued additional training at Hendon Police College in London, England, where he once more finished first in his class.

In pursuit of new opportunities, Jimmy migrated to the United States, settling first in New York City. From 1977 to 1980, he studied Accounting at Hunter College. In 1980 he began employment with The Bank of New York Mellon, where he worked faithfully for over two decades until his retirement in 2002. After retiring, he relocated to Springfield, Massachusetts.

As a young man growing up in St. Vincent, Jimmy enjoyed many of the simple pleasures of Caribbean life. He loved and played cricket and was known to be quite good at it. He also enjoyed river fishing.

Jimmy had a deep appreciation for music. He was an ardent fan of Johnny Mathis and proudly owned every song recorded by the legendary singer. He could listen to Johnny Mathis for hours. He also loved watching movies, especially James Bond films and classic Westerns.

He leaves to cherish his memory of his children: Hazel "Sis" Williams of Texas, USA, and Suzette Cabral of the USA. He was predeceased by his daughter, Valarie Arlette Baptiste. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Rashid, Raven, Josephine, Ocha, Sejay, and Lucky; and seven great-grandchildren.

He leaves to mourn his siblings: sister Hazel Morris (USA); brothers Ormond Shortte (England), Vincent Shortte, David Shortte, and Maxwell Shortte (USA), and Jeffrey Shortte (St. Vincent and the Grenadines).

He will also be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends, including Sandra Carr of New York.

Funeral Service

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Changemakers Charismatic Fellowship (CCF)

1514 State Street

Springfield, Massachusetts 01109

Visitation: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Henderson Funeral Home

52 Hancock Street

Springfield, Massachusetts 01109

Closing Tribute

Jimmy will be remembered for his discipline, dedication, love of family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. Though he has departed from our sight, his memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed, but never forgot