Dear Editor:
We are writing to express our heartfelt thanks to all that came to Gerald “Jerry” Smith’s wake or funeral or just expressed their sorrow. There were so many expressions of appreciation of his life that we are afraid that we may not be able to name them all; however, this letter is intended to attempt to do just that.
First off, thank you to Failla’s Memorial Home. Especially John McKnight, Vincent Caicola, Vinny Mezzina, Vito Lupo and David McKnight for their sincere care for my father and my family.
Secondly, thank you to the Hoboken American Legion, especially Thomas Kennedy, Sr., for their poignant ceremony. We cannot express how fitting Jerry would have found their observance of his life. In cooperation with them was the Weehawken American Legion, whose friendship he cherished close to that of his family. Their presence was appreciated and valued.
In addition, the honor that the Hoboken Fire Department bestowed upon Jerry was remarkable. Thank you to the Honor Guard members for their dignified recognition service to the community, and especially to Captain Guzman and Michael Taglieri for getting in touch with the family to make it happen.
Thank you to the Hoboken Police Department Motorcade for their skillful expertise.
Thank you to the Elks Club for their lovely tribute.
Finally, thank you to the City of Hoboken for the honor bestowed to my father as the Grand Marshal of the Memorial Day Parade. Although he passed the day before the parade, he was proud for months to be honored. There are special thanks that go out to Charles Campbell and Roy Huelbig, one of my father’s greatest friends.
To all that we omitted in this letter, trust us, you are far from forgotten.
Sincerely,
Phyllis, Edward and Irene Smith