James W. Smith, age 90, of rural Greenfield, passed away on Wednesday, March 30, 2011, surrounded by his family and friends. He was born in Hancock County to Alonzo Smith and Henrietta (Hill) Smith on May 15, 1920. He graduated from Westland High School in 1938 and married Leila Mae Stine on December 25, 1940.
He served in the U.S. Army during WWII and retired from International Harvester in 1974 after 30 years of service. He was a charter life member of the Greenfield Conservation Club. Mr. Smith also farmed for many years in Blue River Township and enjoyed hunting, fishing, the outdoors, and good conversations with friends. He enjoyed sharing memories and the wisdom of his early years. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Surviving him are his son, James W. (Janice) Smith II of Greenfield; grandson, Brendan Smith of Greenfield; granddaughters, Tia Monday of Sulphur Springs and Wendy Cecil of Shelbyville; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Lelila Ray of Hancock County; brothers, John of Wash., and Joe of Utah; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; one brother; and three sisters.
Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m on Sunday, April 3, 2011, at Erlewein Mortuary in Greenfield. Funeral services will take place at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 4, 2011, at the mortuary. Burial will take place at Asbury Cemetery in Morristown.
Friends may sign the online guestbook at www.erleweinmortuary.com or email condolences to [email protected].
