J. Whitman Smith ’68 died on July 15, 2022, in Cumberland Center, Maine.

(The following was provided by the Maine Sunday Telegram on July 24, 2022)

J. Whitman Smith ’68

Cumberland – On July 15, 2022, lifetime scholar, James Whitman Smith, finally learned the answer to his question – “Is there life after death?”

“Whit” (or “Half-Whit”, as he enjoyed calling himself) was born August 26, 1946 in Portland to Sidney and Mabel (Dunn) Smith and grew up in Portland and North Yarmouth. He graduated from Greely Institute, Bowdoin College, USM Law School and served in the U.S. Army.

He and former wife, Patricia Bruni, married in 1973, made their home in Cumberland where they raised their two children and he practiced law for many years.

In recent years, the older and more eccentric Whit met his partner, Cece, who accepted his eccentricities and shared his life and love of gardening.

Whit was predeceased by parents; two stepfathers, Armard (Bill) Slusser and Norman P. Burnell; stepsister, Nancy (Slusser) Twomey and his brother, Walter Christopher Slusser.

He leaves behind his partner, Cecile Thornton of Lewiston; his two children, David Smith and Michelle (TK) Cardoza; four grandchildren, Chloe, Atticus and Zada Smith and Marina Cardoza; his brother, Monty (Kay) Slusser; stepmother, Norma Smith; sisters Gail Bruns (Larry) and Cindy Cherner (Fred); and several cousins; nieces and nephews.

As per his wishes, there will be no visiting hours or service, but for those who knew the charming intelligent Whit, who could always offer up sage advice or a passionate discussion, take a moment to smile as you remember the exceptional uniqueness of Whit.