Jack Smithwick

"The nicest man I ever met" are the words often heard describing Jack Smithwick, 72, who died January 5, 2016. During his three year battle with brain cancer, Jack continued to be the consummate gentleman, ever concerned for the happiness and comfort of those around him.Jack was born and raised in Chicago and attended Loyola University where he met his wife, Gail. At Loyola Jack was president of his fraternity (TKE) and of the student council. After graduating he served 3 years in the Navy as an anti-submarine officer on a destroyer escort. Upon discharge he worked for EDS and then Chase Manhattan Bank in New York. He moved to Nashville in 1979 where he spent the majority of his professional career as the director of Human Resources at First American Bank. He also worked for Behavioral Health Care and Cumberland-Swan.In the eighties, Jack was known at Maryland Farms tennis courts for his almost impossible to return left-handed serve. At Richland Country Club, his left-handed tee shot on the 5th regularly ended up on Granny White Pike.His concern for others took many forms – overtly via community involvement in organizations such as the United Way and Boys and Girls Club, and less visibly, by frequent personal outreach to others in need of a helping hand.Jack was predeceased by his parents John and Betty Smithwick. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Gail, son John (Josephine) Smithwick, and daughter, Megan Smithwick. There are no words to convey the joy that his grandsons, Jack and William, brought to his life. Even during the most difficult times, his face would glow with happiness at the mere mention of them.Also surviving Jack are his siblings Bob (Helen) Smithwick, Tom Smithwick, and Ann (Denny) Byrnes. He deeply appreciated their loving support and care, especially during the last 3 years, as they traveled regularly to Nashville to help when they could. He recognized also and was deeply thankful for the love and concern shown by his many friends, both old and new.Those wishing to offer a memorial are asked to do so to Alive Hospice which helped immeasurably in the final days. And in keeping with Jack's philosophy of life, his family asks that each friend take a moment today to find joy in and give thanks for this world's beauty.Visitation with the family will be from 10:30 - 12;30 on Tuesday, January 12 at Christ the King Church, followed by a Memorial Mass.NASHVILLE FUNERAL AND CREMATION 615-256-1605