Former School Board Member Jim Smith Passes Away
Former West Chester School Board member, teacher and coach Jim Smith passes away at the age of 74.
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Former West Chester School Board member, teacher and Coach Jim Smith passed away unexpectedly early Sunday morning at the age of 74.
“It’s a big loss for the community,” said former school board member Jim Davison who served with Smith from Dec. 2003-2011. “He didn’t hold back. Whenever he talked about something he was very serious, but he was a puppy dog underneath.”
Smith taught history in the West Chester School District for more than 30 years, and he also served several years as the head football coach at Marple-Newtown High School as well as the quarterback coach at Henderson high school.
“He was a very dear friend,” Davison said. “We used to talk everyday.”
Davison added, "It came as a real shock to all of us," Davison said. "We all thought he was in really great shape."
Robin Kaliner
3:44 pm on Sunday, September 9, 2012
No matter what decision he made, Jim always had the kids forefront in his mind. He had a ton of passion for education and for West Chester School District especially. I'm so glad he got to see the lights turn on at Rustin, as he was a big supporter of that project. Jim will be missed not only by his family and friends, but by people all over West Chester including teachers ,former students, administrators, parents, and other community members.
Cathy Binder
7:31 pm on Sunday, September 9, 2012
This is a tremendous loss to our community and to public education.
Big Papa
9:11 pm on Sunday, September 9, 2012
Jim was a true advocate and ambassador for WCASD and public education. His presence will be missed.
Fiat Lux
7:51 am on Monday, September 10, 2012
Jim was a giant among men. A dedicated and committed leader of this community. He wore his passion on his sleave and you always knew exactly where you stood with Jim. He also was not afraid to change his mind when presented with facts that might suggest a differing opinion. I will forever be indebted for his tutelage while on the Board and the mentoring he readily gave.
God Bless you friend and until we meet again, peace on your soul and God's grace guiding you home.