James E. Smiley II

James Elliott Smiley II, 65, of Pittsburgh, passed away Thursday evening, April 16, 2026, surrounded by family at Passavant-MICU Hospital after a lengthy illness. 

Born on July 12, 1960, in Pittsburgh, the firstborn son of James Elliott Sr. and Sally (McKrell) Smiley. He was a 1979 graduate of Avonworth High School. 

Jim lived a life marked by gentleness, kindness, and goodwill. 

He was an avid fan of all Pittsburgh sports teams, and never missed a chance to watch a football, baseball, or a hockey game. He found great joy in creating an impressive collection of rookie cards over the years. Go Steelers! Go Pirates! Go Pens! 

He also loved spending time with his family at Canadohta Lake riding bikes, eating snacks, and playing cards or dominoes. 

Jim’s time in the workforce included 35+ years at AARP, as caregiver at a group home for adults with disabilities. His heart for others was evident, during the holidays he would often bring residents that did not have family to his own family gatherings. 

Above all, Jim was loved by his family deeply. He is survived by his mother Sally Smiley, brother Christopher Smiley Sr., Niece Danielle Brocker(Briston), Nephew Christopher Smiley Jr(Joy), Niece Micah Smiley, Karmen Smiley, and dear lifelong college friend, Shawn Murphy, as well as many extended family members and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his father, James Elliott Smiley Sr.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 4-8PM, and a service to follow on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 11AM. McDonald-Linn Funeral Home. 529 California Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15202.

Jim will be remembered for a legacy of love, and greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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