Dennis Smith Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

*** To watch Dennis' Funeral Service, please click on the "Photos/Videos/Media" tab, and choose the file named "Dennis' Funeral". Thank you! *** Dennis F. Smith was born in Newark, NJ on May 11, 1942 to the late Morris Smith and Arlene Sapp (Timmons). Dennis was ushered to heaven by the heavenly host on Thursday, April 23, 2020. His transition occurred at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden, NJ at 11:00 pm. Dennis was educated by the Newark Public School System until he graduated from Central High School. Prior to enlisting in the Navy, Dennis married Mary whom he loved. They had 8 children. Their marriage lasted for 58 years. He served in the United States Navy from 1962 until 1968. He was stationed aboard the USS Roosevelt CVA 42 aircraft carrier with an honorable discharge. While in the Navy stationed in Mayport Florida; he was on the boxing team as a welter weight boxer. His most outstanding match came when he sustained a shoulder injury during the fight but to his prevail, he knocked out his opponent with a one-hand punch and won the fight. While in the Navy, he had a chance to see the world. Upon reentering as a civilian, he got a job at Alcan Metal Powers, Inc. In Union, NJ and was employed there for 18 years. While still employed with Alcan, he pursued a career in law enforcement. His law enforcement career began as a Newark, NJ auxiliary officer. He advanced himself to become a Newark special police officer. Further pursuing a law enforcement career as an Essex County Deputy Sheriff Officer. After winning an age discrimination case, he successfully became a Newark police officer. Later in life he oversees Smith & Williams medical transportation. Dennis was an extraordinary man who loved and enjoyed life. He was a people's person. "He believed that a man's word was his bond." He loved fishing. He spent many hours fishing at eagle rock reservation in West Orange, NJ, etc. Additionally, he loved going to the movies. He had a host of movies he enjoyed throughout his life. Westerns, war movies, drama, action movies, comedies and karate. He also enjoyed bibilical movies, as well. The Ten Commandments, Samson and the King of Kings. Some of his favorite actors are: John Wayne, Denzel Washington, Richard Pryor, Kirk Douglas and Audie Murray. The list is endless. As time evolved, cable arrived; "the talking remote made his day". He also loved repairing cars. He and his friend were always under the hood of a car. As a father, he loved to tell silly jokes and played silly tricks on them. He especially loved to take them to the drive end and amusement parks. Dennis was a hardworking man and a good provider to his family. Dennis Was Preceded In Death By His Parents, Father, Morris Smith; Mother, Arlene Sapp (Timmons). Brother Norman Smith, Sister Madeline Mapps, Brother Robert Dwight, Nephew, Jerome Smith, Nephew, Paul Mapps, Nephew, Kevin Mapps, Granddaughter Andrea Josey. Dennis leaves to cherish his memory, a devoted wife of 58 years, Mary J Smith (Taylor), His Son, Abdul Hafiz (Dennis, Jr.) Smith, Daughter, Denise L. Jackson, Son-In-Law Earle Jackson, Son, Dwayne Smith, Son, David W. Smith, Daughter-In-Law, Dawn Smith, Daughter, Deborah A. Smith-Spikes, Son-In- Law, Donnell Spikes, Son, Donald L. Smith, Son, Donnell Smith, Son, Douglas S. Smith, Son, Dyshaun Smith Son, Damill Khaliya, Daughter, Devoria Casilla. Step Mother Wilma Smith. Siblings: Brother, Maurice Dwight, Sister-Law Karon Dwight, Brother, Morris Smith Jr., Raymond Smith, Sis-In-Law Crystie Smith, Brother, Anthony Smith Sr., Sister-In-Law Malissa Smith, Sister Alicia Mustin, Brother-In-Law Jerry Mustin, Sister Nevada Smith. A host of grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, family and friends. Acknowledgements The family of Dennis F. Smith profoundly appreciates all of the prayers and words of comfort that you have extended to us. Your love has been thunderously poured into our hearts and spirit like a giant waterfall. The mist of it will overshadow us every time we think of your love and never ending kindness. May the blessing of the lord be with you daily. Let god's word be a light unto your path and a lamp unto your feet. A special thank you (big brother) Rev. Florian Jenkins for visiting Dennis. Much gratitude and love. Thank you Pastor Anthony Dicillio for your special visits as his pastor and friend. You, Pastor Tina and Friendship World Outreach showered him with great love Thank you Dwayne for helping me bring closure and taking the lead to help me & us through this difficult time. You are honored highly as a son. I could have not done it without you! Love mom The names are endless. I cannot list them all. You are all treasures of golden love. To God in heaven be all the praise and glory. Thank you God for saving my husband. He is at rest with you. No more sickness; no more pain. I thank you for hearing and answering our prayers. The sadness is here. The tears keep coming but how can I not be glad oh, God, when I know he is not sad. He is with you in heaven and wow, I have to be glad!!!

Tributes

Dennis Smith

May 11, 1942 - April 23, 2020