Jim Smith

Suerk had intended to dictate some words regarding the loss of his friend Jim Smith. He has stopped suggesting he wants to offer the words, and after encouraging him for a two weeks, I have stopped encouraging him. He is simply unable. Larry Jones will see to it that Suerk receives a recording of Jim’s memorial service. Suerk is looking forward to hearing the words others use to honor Jim, and especially looking forward to hearing the good music that honors all who are able to attend the service. In lieu of Suerk’s words, here’s Jim’s obituary.

James Winston Smith

James Winston Smith, 70, former member of the Mercersburg Academy faculty, died peacefully in his home the evening of August 20, 2009.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland on May 11, 1939, he was the son of Helen Tilghman Smith and James Winston Smith. He grew up in College Park and Laurel, Maryland.

A graduate of High Point High School in Beltsville, Maryland, he graduated from the University of Maryland and Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey, where he earned a Master’s in Music.

He began his music career at St. Mark’s School in Dallas, Texas, before coming to the Mercersburg Academy in 1965.

During his 36 year tenure at the Academy he served as teacher, organist, choirmaster and choral director. He was Head of the Fine Arts Department for five years and developed the Mercersburg Academy Chorale and Woman’s Ensemble. He was also a longtime member of the American Guild of Organists.

In 1981 he was appointed the Academy’s carillonneur. He played the bells nationally and internationally, ultimately achieving status as a Carillonneur Member with the Guild of Carillonneurs of North America.

In 2008 he was honored with the dedication of the James W. Smith Memorial Bell, the final bell in the Academy chapel’s 50-bell carillon.

Mr. Smith was very active in the local community. He was a longtime member of the Franklin County Heritage Society, helped create the Historic District in Mercersburg and served as President of Mercersburg’s Borough Council for many years.

Surviving are his wife, Carol; a brother, Winslow; a son, Ted; two daughters, Hannah and Sarah; and four grandchildren.

A memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 12 at the Mercersburg Academy Chapel at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to the Mercersburg Academy, c/o The James W. Smith Memorial Fund, 300 E. Seminary Street, Mercersburg, PA 17236