Harold "Smitty" A. Smith, Jr.

Harold "Smitty" A. Smith Jr. (June 2, 1943 – September 4, 2024)

It is with great sadness that the family of Harold Smith, 81, of Nedrow announce his sudden passing. Born June 2, 1943 to Harold and Noreen Smith of Syracuse, he was married for 60 years to his beloved wife, Jean, and was the proud father to son, John and grandchildren. 

Better known as Smitty to the countless people who knew and loved him, his life was committed to family, fire service and the Nedrow community, where he spent most of his life. It is fair to say he made an impression wherever he went with his big heart and big personality, jumping in to help whoever needed a hand and give his opinion to whoever listened. 

He served in the United States Army in Germany during the Vietnam War and upon his return home, joined New Venture Gear, where he worked for 30 years before a well-earned retirement in 2002. While at NVG, he founded its first emergency response team – setting the stage for a lifetime of volunteerism dedicated to saving and protecting those in need. 

In 1965, he joined the Nedrow Fire Department, where he held various line offer positions over the years before becoming Chief. In the mid-80’s, Chief Smith was appointed by the Southern Section Line Officers Association as Deputy Coordinator EM306 (County Car 6) where he served for 25 years. He was likewise active with the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, including nine years as its director.

A true “hero in red” for six decades, he also led fire safety education programs for students in the Onondaga Central Schools; recruited many young adults to the emergency services field; was instrumental in helping the Onondaga Nation modernize its early fire department; and became an active member of the Nedrow Fire Department Auxiliary when his days as a firefighter came to a close.

In addition to his wife, Jean, and son, John (Kim), Smitty is survived by his cherished grandchildren, Carly and Kyle of Onondaga Hill; sister, Maureen Eddicus of Constantia; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be 4-7 p.m., Tues., Sept. 10 at Nedrow Fire Department, 6505 S. Salina St.; with funeral services at 10:00 a.m., Wed., Sept. 11 at Our Lady of Hope, 4845 S. Salina St.

The family extends its thanks to the staff of TLC EMS and Smitty’s many friends their constant support these past months. Contributions, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Nedrow Fire Department Auxiliary.