Jay L. Smith II

Jay L. Smith, was born July 30, 1939 in New Jersey to Geraldine L. Smith and Jay R. Smith. Jay was a starting pitcher in high school, played semi-professional baseball in Maplewood, NJ and later tried out for the Brooklyn Dodgers and Milwaukee Braves. In addition to his love of baseball, Jay was also an avid cyclist and eventually represented the State of Alabama in many Senior Olympic Games. After growing up in the Short Hills, NJ, Jay attended and graduated from the prestigious Hobart College in upstate Geneva, NY, with a degree in Economics. After completing his education at Hobart, Jay enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a Commanding Officer from 1961-1965. Jay attended Officer Training School in Newport, RI. After returning from his service and obtaining an honorable discharge from the Navy, Jay went to work and was employed by the family company started by his grandfather in New York City, Jay R. Smith Manufacturing. Jay moved up the ranks with the company until he was eventually named President and Chief Executive Officer in 1978, being the third generation Smith to do so. Soon after being named President and Chief Executive Officer, Jay R. Smith Manufacturing was relocated to the Gunter Industrial Park in Montgomery, Alabama. Today, with the help of many beloved employees, Jay R. Smith Manufacturing is ranked and recognized as one of the national leaders in commercial draining and plumbing products and the company recently celebrated 90 years of continuous business. Despite being a successful businessman, he will be forever remembered for his kindness and generosity to all. Jay is survived by his two daughters, Dr. Holly Smith Roth, and her husband Mark, of Montgomery, AL; and Mrs. Deborah Ann Smith Clancy, and her husband Sean, of Beverly Hills, FL. He is also survived by his sister, Geraldine Smith Wank of San Diego, CA; brother, Bruce Smith of Louisville, KY; brother, Dwight Smith of Portland, OR; and former wife and longtime companion, Carol Smith of Inverness, FL. A memorial will take place on Friday, April 8, 2016 at the Alabama Heritage Funeral Home, located at 10505 Atlanta Highway in Montgomery, AL. Visitation will be at 2:00pm and the memorial service will commence at 3:00pm. Dr. John Ed Mathison, a longtime friend and local pastor, will preside. A private family graveside service will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make donations to the Jay L. Smith Family Foundation at 469 South McDonough Street, Montgomery, AL 36104