Alexander John “AJ” Smullen passed away at Albany Medical Center on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in Albany, New York at the age of 14 following a fierce fight in the Pediatric ICU after being hit by a car on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024. He gave the ultimate gift by participating in the New York State Donate Life program.

AJ is survived by his parents Megan and Robert; older siblings Em, Lily, and Haley; grandfather Richard Smullen; grandmother Judy Madden; aunt Susan; cousin Kristine Goodemote; mentor Brian Manzer; jackapoo Flora; and dozens more aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his grandmother Joan Smullen; grandfather Walter Madden; and beloved beagles Sparkle and Bear.

AJ was born on June 21, 2009, at Camp Lejeune Naval Hospital in North Carolina. At the time of his passing, he was a Coca-Cola-loving eighth grader at Mayfield Jr./Sr. High School. He had hoped to attend forestry school once he graduated and take over the family farm using the outdoorsman skills he learned from his grandfather, father, and friends. His loved ones remember him as a kind, clever, and courageous old soul who always provided a helping hand and witty retort.

AJ was passionate about homesteading and often indulged in four-wheeling, hunting for old artifacts, and goofing off. He was a sweet and strong boy who loved history and was skilled at antiquing. You would often find him sporting a flannel shirt and grooving out to an old record on a vintage turntable. AJ was also an avid artist and amateur banjo player. He was a junior member of the Pine Tree Rifle Club and a member of the Pinnacle Mountain Ridgerunners. AJ also worked at Rogers Family Orchard in Johnstown and previously volunteered at the Fulton County Museum.

Calling hours are scheduled from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Johnstown, New York. St. John’s will also host the funeral service at 3 p.m. with a reception to follow at the Pine Tree Rifle Club. Reverend Laurie Garramone will officiate the ceremony; family and close friends are invited to attend and celebrate AJ’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Pine Tree Rifle Club’s “Alexander John Smullen Memorial Scholarship”: ℅ Paul Catucci., P.O. Box 45, Johnstown, NY 12095 or to Meco Volunteer Fire Company and the Fulton County Regional SPCA. Condolences and memories of AJ can be sent to ajsmullenpictures@gmail.com.