Sydney V. Smith, known affectionately as Syd, passed away on January 14, 2026, at Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Township, NJ, after a brief illness. He was born to Vince and Alberta Smith on August 25, 1944, in Summit, NJ and grew up to become a remarkable man who touched the lives of many through his work, interests, and love for family.
Education was also a significant part of Syd's life; he graduated in the first class of Ridge High School in Basking Ridge, NJ in 1962. In his youth, he played baseball, football and later enjoyed playing softball. Syd dedicated over 40 years of his life to a career as a commercial truck driver, retiring from TFS Trucking in Jersey City, NJ. He was a proud member of the Teamsters Local 812 for many years, demonstrating a strong commitment to his profession and union.
A man of many interests, Syd was a passionate fan of NASCAR, stock car, and dirt-track racing. His favorite racer was Frankie Schneider, and he enjoyed keeping up with the latest happenings in the racing world through the "Area Auto News." Beyond racing, Syd cherished grilling and enjoying good food, especially Chinese cuisine. He also had a deep love of fishing and took pleasure in watching classic films, particularly car movies, on channels like TMC and Hallmark. His sense of humor led him to many comedy shows, which he attended with his son, Scott, and he shared concert outings with his late son, Billy and Somerset Patriots baseball games with his daughter, Shannan.
Syd took immense pride in his home and community, always meticulously caring for his own lawn and assisting neighbors with theirs, displaying a spirit of generosity and diligence that will be fondly remembered.
Syd was predeceased by his son, William P. Smith, who passed away in 2013, his brother, Raymond S. Smith and his parents, Vince W. Smith and Alberta May (Trebilcock) Smith. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Dorothy M. (Lyon) Smith; his son, Scott E. Smith of Whitehouse Station, NJ; his daughter, Shannan M. Smith of Annandale, NJ; his grandson, Austin Joseph Smith; his sister, Gladys Stevens of Burbank, CA; and several nieces and nephews.
Services to celebrate Syd's life will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home located at 147 Main St in Flemington, NJ. The viewing will take place from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 7:00 PM officiated by the Rev. Ann Holt. Interment in Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover NJ will take place privately.
Memorial contributions in Syd's name may be made to the Calvary Episcopal Church, 44 Broad St., Flemington NJ 08822. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, please visit www.holcombefisher.com for further information or to leave an online condolence.
Syd will be deeply missed by his family and friends and will be forever in our hearts.
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