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Siegfried "Ziggy" E. Szurley, 71, of Smithfield, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was the devoted husband of Sandra (Keough) Szurley. He was born in Hinesville, Georgia, and was the proud son of the late Ernest and Gisela (Woll) Szurley.
Ziggy lived a life full of purpose, laughter, and love. Known for his warm heart, unwavering reliability, and selfless spirit, he was the kind of person who would drop everything to help a neighbor, crack a joke to lift someone's spirits, or add a special touch to a celebration that made it unforgettable. Whether it was stringing lights in just the right way, decorating display cases for students to see, or playing a tune on his guitar, Ziggy had a gift for turning everyday moments into lasting memories.
A proud and patriotic man, Ziggy found great joy in honoring those who served. As a longtime member of the Rhode Island Military Vehicle Collector's Club, he participated in countless parades, shows, and veteran events, often behind the wheel of one of his lovingly restored antique military vehicles. He took pride not only in preserving history, but in sharing it with others.
Professionally, Ziggy worked for many years for the Town of Lincoln, where his dependable nature and helpful heart made a lasting impact. But it was his life beyond work that truly reflected who he was. Ziggy was never one to sit still — he was happiest outdoors, hiking wooded trails, camping under the stars, or simply enjoying time in nature with his wife and children by his side.
He and Sandra shared a beautiful bond — built on laughter, shared dreams, and quiet afternoons spent antiquing or working on their latest project. As a father, Ziggy was endlessly supportive and full of fun. He passed on his love for adventure, his deep respect for others, and his unshakable optimism to his children, and reveled in the joy of being "Papa" to his grandchildren.
Ziggy's legacy is one of kindness, joy, and an enduring love for people, country, and the great outdoors. He approached life with an open heart and a ready smile — never too serious, always ready with a story or a helping hand. His absence leaves a deep void in the lives of those who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.
He is survived by his loving wife Sandra, his daughter Katherine (Szurley) Randall and her husband, Thomas Randall, his son Andrew Szurley and his wife, Brittany Benedetti, his grandchildren Riley and Jackson Randall, and his sister Anita Patten.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Funeral Service of the deceased Wednesday, October 15th at 10:00 AM at Saint Basil The Great Church, 15 Skyview Drive, Lincoln. Burial will follow at Saint Basil's Cemetery, Cumberland. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, October 14th from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the O'Neill Funeral Home, 3102 Mendon Road, Cumberland.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Ziggy by taking a walk in the woods, lending a hand to a neighbor, or finding time to laugh with those you love — just as he would have wanted.
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