In Memoriam – James Smith

Since joining Encore in 2008, James has been a treasured colleague and friend, sharing adventures in travel all over the world. His commitment to those he worked with was unwavering, be it his colleagues or the many Music Directors across the US with whom he planned performance tours. He paired great expertise with dedication and kindness, always wanting the best for everyone whose lives he touched.

James was a natural communicator and comedian. One moment impersonating Elvis and the next donning his flat cap and joining the cast of Peaky Blinders. He loved to play off others, an inclusive style that brought everyone around him together in laughter. Such was his ability to create comedy based on shared travel experiences, that his annual dinner speech at Encore’s Prelude event became an eagerly anticipated highlight for all.

With an appreciation for music that knew no bounds, James enjoyed an eclectic taste. Whether immersed in the spirited tunes of The Pogues or savoring the melodies of a youth symphony orchestra, James took pleasure in the expansive range of musical expression. His ability to connect with and enjoy such varied genres reflected not only his expertise but also his open-minded and inclusive approach to the arts. It was James’s deep knowledge and broad embrace of music that established him as a truly dynamic force, earning the innate trust of everybody with whom he worked.

In addition to music and travel, James loved the outdoors, conquering hiking trails, feeling the wind in his face while riding on his motorcycle, and hitting the greens on the annual family golf trip. He approached each pursuit with the same passion and zest that endeared him to so many.

In loving memory of James, we reflect upon a man whose extraordinary gift for infusing joy into our lives went beyond his unique brand of humor. It wasn’t merely his talent for impersonations or his wit that set James apart; it was the profound empathy he exuded and his effortless capacity to forge genuine connections with everyone he encountered. A magnetic personality, James had an uncanny ability to bring people together, uniting diverse groups through shared moments of laughter and camaraderie.

Yet, what truly defined James was his deep love for his family, and being a father was undeniably one of the greatest joys in his life. Anybody who knew James could tell you how his face would light up as he recounted the joys of parenthood. He loved his frequent visits to England, where he would spend cherished moments with his parents and siblings.

We honor the remarkable life led by James and the lasting impact he etched upon everyone fortunate enough to know him.

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