Stephen J. Smyth, age 68, recently of North Wales, Pa., passed peacefully, after a long illness on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Elm Terrace Gardens.
He was the beloved husband of Nancy (nee. Maturi) whom he married on April 8, 1978.
Stephen was the loving father of one daughter, Kristen M. Smyth, and one son Matthew S. Smyth, and grandfather to Roman M. Smyth.
Born December 28, 1954, he was the son of the late Joseph and Rita (Gallagher) Smyth.
He was one of eight children.
His surviving siblings are Kathleen Reilley, Susan Smyth, Thomas Smyth, Veronica Snyder, Paul Smyth, and Sheila Quinn. His sister, Karen Smyth passed away in 2022.
He attended Lincoln High School in Philadelphia. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Temple University and a Masters Degree in Education from Holy Family University.
He served the Philadelphia Police Department for 27 years rising to the rank of Lieutenant. He was a teacher in the Philadelphia School District for 14 years.
Stephen spent 52 years living in Philadelphia and 16 years living in North Wales, Pa.
In addition to his wife, children and siblings he is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
He is also predeceased by his nephew Michael Brown (2017).
His Funeral Mass will be held Monday, October 2, 2023, at 11:30 am, at Saint Stanislaus Roman Catholic Church, 51 Lansdale Avenue, Lansdale, Pa. 19466. Visitation and Viewing precede the Mass beginning at 9 am. A reception will follow the Mass at Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center, 1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, Pa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to AFTD (Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration) 2700 Horizon Drive, Suite 120, King of Prussia, Pa. 19406 or Breast Cancer Association, https://donate.cancer.org.
I have known Steve since 1973, when he worked for the bakery and brought donuts to the student nurses at Jefferson. I knew he would be perfect with my best friend Nancy and this many years later, I was right. I will truly miss his larger than life smile and sense of humor. A great husband, father, Police Officer, educator, friend, and so much more. I will miss you my friend but am confident we will all be reunited as we’ve been promised. Rest easy…
I worked with Steve for several years at the Police Academy. He was the consummate professional and a generous mentor. His dry humor made the difficult days bearable. He will be sorely missed. He and his family remain in my prayers.
So sad to hear of Steve’s passing. I worked with him for several years at the Police Academy. He always shared his knowledge and expertise and was a mentor and a professional. Humor? You bet. The tough days were somehow more bearable because of him.
We all get an hourglass when we’re born – but we don’t all get the same amount of sand. He will be sorely missed. He and his family will remain in my prayers.
We can all hold on to Steve’s beautiful Smile no matter what was happening. I have been blessed to be a part of this Smyth klan for some 60+ years.
Such love and friendship from Steve and his entire family has indeed been a true blessing. Rest in peace, dear Steve.
Rita (Reets) Smyth
So sorry to hear this. My deepest sympathies to his family. Steve was a true gentlemen and consummate professional. Worked a couple of details with Steve including the 2000 RNC. He never let a tense situation dampen his sense of humor. He served the citizens of Philadelphia with dignity and respect. He will be kept in my prayers.
Steve was the North Star, consistent, always shining a beacon of hope, and never sacrificing integrity for limelight.
Love you Steve, forever you will be missed.
I worked at Elm Terrace Gardens I remembered meeting Steve for the first time. Immediately me and Steve became friends. Steve was a wonderful sweet man and may I add very handsome and funny. He was a great guy. I’m going to miss him. Love always, Allyson
Working with Steve for 5 years at the Academy was a good time. Yes, we all worked hard everyday training, working the grounds, and doing tours for the school kids and disable children. No matter your problems Steve made them go away with his funny stories, jokes, and clowning around. He was a Brother to all of us, regardless of rank. A TRUE Friend, mentor, and Christian.
He’s earned his place in Heaven, along side the many Officers he called his family. I’ll miss you My Friend.
Steve and I worked together on the Phila. P.D. at the Advanced Training Unit. He was smart, friendly, and always available to assist in any way he could. He would always make you laugh whatever the situation was. God bless Steve and his family, whom he always cherished.
Lee Rominiecki
We are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. It was a
pleasure and honor to know him.
Our prayers are for Steve, the entire Smyth family for your loss, and for all to find peace knowing Steve is free of any of the trials he endured.
Joe and Peggy Smith
Steve lived with great integrity , professionalism , and wonderful sense of humor having a positive impact on all who crossed his path in life ; RIP Steve God bless !
Our deepest condolences to Steve’s family. He was a friendly, intelligent and kind person. My husband and I met him as neighbors in the Mayfair section of Philadelphia, and have always regarded him to be a thoughtful & considerate man.
May Steve Rest In Peace.
Rest in Peace Steve
They say nice guys finish last but not Steve. We both did urban disturbance training together at the academy a long time ago with the recruits Steve on foot with recruits and me with the horses. He always had time to help or advise if problems occurred.
He will be missed.
Rest easy friend
Bill Smith
Retired Mounted