James Joseph Smith of Cape Coral, FL formerly of Westmont, age 88. Loving partner of Annette Leinberger; husband of the late Martha Smith; loving father of Colleen Senft, James (Diana) Smith, Sheila (late David) Lewis, Daniel Smith and the late Maureen Fonseca; proud grandfather of 8; great-grandfather of 4.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James Smith, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, and partner. James, also known as Jim, passed away peacefully on May 15th, 2023, at the age of 88, surrounded by family. He was born on March 4th, 1935, and lived a life filled with joy, laughter, and passion.

Jim was a kind and loving man who had an infectious laughter and lit up every room he was in. He was always telling jokes and making everyone around him feel happy. He was an avid sports enthusiast and he loved watching games on tv and in person.

Born and raised in Chicago, IL, Jim spent most of his life there, raising his family and working as a postal worker for 33 years. In addition to his career, he also ran his own frozen foods company. He was a hardworking man who always put his family first.

Jim was married to Martha for over 50 years, and they had five children together; three daughters and two sons. He was a great family man, always there to support and guide his children and grandchildren. He spent his last 14 years enjoying life with his partner, Annette Leinberger, and they made many wonderful memories together.

Jim was passionate about history, especially the wars, and loved to read and watch documentaries on the subject. He was especially fascinated by World War I and II. He was also very involved in his community and was a loyal member of various associations such as the Irish club, Moose Club, American legion, and Elks club.

One of Jim's great passions was music, and he had a beautiful tenor voice. He loved to sing for people and performed in different shows, weddings, and events. He had a great appreciation for all kinds of music, but especially the opera. He always had a song in his heart.

Jim was a wonderful grandfather who loved spending time with his grandchildren. He gave them great life advice and was always there to support and guide them.

Jim's legacy will live on through his family and friends, who will always remember him as a kind, loving, and passionate man who brought joy and happiness into their lives. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will always be cherished.

Family and friends will be received at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester on Thursday, May 25, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral Friday 9:30 a.m. from the funeral home to Divine Providence Church for a 10:00 a.m. Mass. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to Moose Ft. Meyers Beach Lodge 964, 8373 Southwind Bay Circle, Ft. Meyers Beach, FL 33908 or the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236. For funeral info 708-F-U-N-E-R-A-L.