BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor
Hurricane Sandy claimed the life of a 35-year-old man who has ties to a popular Tampa family. He died after a vehicle fell on him.
Community activist Ann Jenkins said her nephew, Aaron Jerome Smith, died on Tuesday, October 30th.
Smith was the son of Pete Jerome Smith, of Tampa, and Ms. Gloria Artis, of Washington, D. C.
Ms. Jenkins said her nephew went out to help a friend in the strong winds brought about by Hurricane Sandy. The friend had a flat tire and Smith was attempting to help him during the strong winds and rain.
“His friend told us that (Aaron) Smith was under the car trying to free the spare tire. The wind played a significant part in blowing the jack from under the car, causing it to fall and crush Smith.
“Normally the spare tire is lowered from within the car, but on that morning, it apparently was hung up. Smith went under the car to free it,” Ms. Jenkins said.
She further stated that Smith was unemployed and had several health issues at the time of his death. “As a young man, he was very talented; he practiced art and music. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was known for reaching out to help others.
“He was loved and embraced by everyone that knew him and his passion for Christ and the Church was always strong and unwavering.”
Smith is survived by his parents, 2 brothers, 2 step-brothers, other family members and friends.
Funeral services for Smith will take place on Saturday, October 17, at Aikens Funeral Home. (See Funeral Page In The Sentinel).
