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In Memory of "Coach Jay" Smith

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This page is dedicated to our amazing brother, Jay Smith, who on March 21, 2013 at the age of 55, passed away after a galliant five-year fight with breast cancer.

(Yes, MEN do get breast cancer. Did you know that the lifetime risk of getting breast cancer for men is 1 in 1,000? True, according to the American Cancer Society).

Jay was an amazing person... a loving husband, devoted father, beloved son, wise-cracking brother to his two sisters, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, friend and so much more.

Jay's unwaivering positive attitude began on the day he found out he had breast cancer. And that attitude never ended. He had a special way of putting people at ease when they came to visit...always teasing or making a joke. His laugh --and teasing --could be infectious!

Jay loved baseball...oh, did he love the game! (Actually he loved all sports!). Jay took his love for the sport, the desire to be with his son and the wish to teach other young boys the appreciation of the sport and coached on the Squirrel Hill Baseball Little League. Many young boys had the priviledge of having the coaching and guidance by a name that he earned, "Coach Jay".

Jay was a fair, honest and respected businessman... working side-by-side with his father at H.A. Smith & Son Uniforms for more than 40 years....providing uniforms and supplies to customers that included the Pittsburgh Police Department and US Postal Service clerks and carriers.

Throughout his treatments, throughout his pain and discomfort, Jay made sure his family came first. He didn't complain or ask, why me. As a dedicated businessman, he would load up his van with the supplies and head out each day to a post office to service his customers. Many of them never knew, until the end, how sick Jay really was.

As his beloved Pittsburgh Penguin player, Mario Lemeiux would do; he put on his uniform, adjusted his face guard and got ready for the game.

Unfortunately, as Jay's health waivered, so did his ability to make his daily routine.

Jay's loss has hit his family hard, both emotionally and financially. As family, we were there to help in any and all ways possible, but his medical costs and various expenses are beyond comprehension. If you have ever had a short stay in the hospital or a trip to the emergency room, you know that insurance doesn't cover all the expenses.

For the last month since Jay's passing, many people have come to us and asked how they can help.

After much thought, and sensitivity to Jay's family, we ask for your consideration: Would you please make a donation, in memory of Jay, to help his family during this time of need.

With much love and appreciation,
Jay's sisters:
Es (Smith) Cohen
Bonnie (Smith) Koski


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Donations 

  • Amy Hallett
    • $20 
    • 11 yrs
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Es Smith Cohen
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