11/11/1934 to 01/12/2026

In loving memory of James DeSales Goldsmith, Sr. of Seattle, Washington. JD, Jim or Jimmy (for short) was born number 10 of 11 children in Greenville, SC. He passed away from pneumonia at the age of 91 with his family by his side. Jim was the very definition of an Irish gentleman, born with a twinkle in his eye and a gift for making people feel instantly at home. He lived a long life, full of laughter, generosity, service and faith. He moved to Delray Beach, Fla. where he met Suzanne (Suzie) Coston, his beautiful wife and moved to Seattle in 1958 to join his brother Hugh and sister-in-law Skitty Goldsmith, both of whom had been so caring for him when he was younger. Jim attended Queen Anne High School and Seattle University and raised his family on Queen Anne and Magnolia. Queen Anne Manor was his home for the past 6 years. He is survived by Jim Jr. (Marlowe Brown), Jane (Loren Mooney), JoAnne (Tom Hennessey) and John (Linda), including Sandy Messner his lifelong friend and partner, and their families including 6 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews he loved dearly. Jim’s life’s work was with his brother Hugh and the many colleagues he considered family at Goldsmith & Associates. He contributed to civil engineering and land development projects throughout the Puget Sound region including master planned communities: Sahalee, Bear Creek, McCormick Woods and Newcastle golf courses, and Cedar (Auburn) Downs. As a man of deep faith, he cherished his Irish heritage and Catholic beliefs, which shaped the way he loved. His faith showed through his acts of kindness, generosity, and sense of gratitude for his friends, family and his parish of Our Lady of Fatima. Jim was deeply proud of his Army military service, which he carried with honor; principles that remained with him long after his service ended.Above all, he cherished his family. He taught by example—how to show up, how to give freely of both time and spirit, and how to enjoy life fully, right up to the very end.He was the life of every party—not because he sought the spotlight - but because joy and laughter seemed to follow him wherever he went. He never met a stranger, only friends he hadn’t met yet, finding genuine happiness in treating others and making sure everyone felt welcome and cared for. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, and countless memories shared with those lucky enough to have known him. The world feels a little quieter without him—but definitely richer for having had him in it.He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his friends and loved ones.Remembrances can be made to a charity of your choosing.