Jim Smith

James O. Smith, 75, Avilla, passed away at home on Saturday, October 31st, 2020.  He was born on February 16, 1945, in Hicksville, Ohio to George & Eva Belle (Moog) Smith.  
Jim graduated in 1963 from Stryker High School.  He was in the United States Marine Corps Reserves from May 1962 to April 1970.  He had recruit training at Paris Island, SC and advanced infantry training at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.  Jim married Karen Brown Sunday on September 18, 2004 and she survives.  

Jim is survived by his four children, Jeanann Smith and Joann North, Columbus, Ohio; Jodie (Brad Crowe) McNalley, Butler, Indiana; and James A. (Nicole) Smith, Knoxville, Tennessee; along with Karen’s children, Rich (Chelsa) Sunday, Kendallville, Indiana and Ryan (Patty Smith) Sunday, Auburn, Indiana.  Jim also survived by fourteen grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.  He is also survived by his brothers, Alan (Marilyn) Smith, Chicago, Illinois, Anthony (Betty Jean) Smith and Irl Rex (Ella) Smith, Bryan, Ohio, and sister, Georgia Ann Patterson, Stryker, Ohio.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Jay D. Smith and Jerry (Kay) Smith.  
Jim was a driver for multiple trucking companies for over 40 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 240 in Avilla, IN, and was past Post- Commander.  He is also a lifetime member of the VFW, Garrett, IN.  

The family has planned a Celebration of Life at the American Legion, Post 240, Avilla, Indiana from 4:00-6:00 pm on Friday, November 13th, 2020, with military honors at 4:00 pm
Memorials donations may be made in Jim’s name to Parkview Hospice – Noble County. 

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