Jim had his own sign shop, worked construction, was part owner of Stone & Ceramic Installations, and was a maintenance man at a daycare in Belleville. He loved his music and his family. Jimmy was a devoted son, fun-loving brother, and kind and generous uncle. The world has lost a gentle soul; we are all better for having known and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Anne Marie, nee Hardin, Smith; his father George P. Smith; a brother, Chris; and an infant sister, Gerry Raye.
Surviving are his brothers and sisters, George P. (Corky) Smith of Belleville, IL,
Kevin Smith of Irvine, CA,
Mary Anne (Tim) Ryerse of Battle Ground, WA,
Mag (Andy) Wells of Belleville, IL,
Monica Smith (Mike Scimeca) of San Rafael, CA,
Killian Joseph Smith (Janine Howard) of Kirkwood, MO,
and Kieran John Smith of Belleville, IL;
nieces and nephews, Chris Ward, Laura Smith,
Solomon Smith, Anna Kismet (Damien) Cordova,
Michael Wells, Austin Smith and Austin’s children, Kinsley, Carter and Emmet;
and great-nieces and great-nephews, Solomon Smith, Tiffany Morton,
Steven Smith, their mother, Kelley Cunningham, and their grandpa, Jay Crook,
Khloe Smith and Khloe’s mother, Kit Heberer.
I am a poor wayfaring stranger
Traveling through this world of woe
But there’s no sickness, toil or danger
In that bright land to which I go
Well, I’m going there to meet my mother
Said, “She’d meet me when I come”
I’m only going over Jordan
I’m only going over home
I know, dark clouds will gather round me
I know, my way will be rough and steep
But beautiful fields lie just before me
Where God’s redeemed their vigils keep
Well, I’m going there to meet my loved ones
Gone on before me, one by one
I’m only going over Jordan
I’m only going over home
I’ll soon be free of earthy trials
My body rest in the old church yard
I’ll drop this cross of self-denial
And I’ll go singing home to God
Well, I’m going there to meet my Savior
Dwell with Him and never roam
I’m only going over Jordan
I’m only going over home
Lyrics to “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” by Natalie Merchant
Memorials may be made to the St. Vincent DePaul Society at St. Henry’s Catholic Church, Belleville, IL. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
James was cremated and privately interred. Future events to celebrate Jimmy’s life will be announced as arrangements are finalized.
Condolences Left For Colin James Smith
Dear Smith family,
I am so sorry to hear of Jimmy’s passing. He was a kind and gentle soul. I enjoyed the years we worked together at Classic Designs.
May you find peace in the treasured memories you have of him.
Robin (Hoff) Ballenger
Robin (Hoff) Ballenger, Belleville, IL, 62226
Dear family von Smith,
So sorry for this sudden and unexpected loss. Love and peace to you all.
John ( Pimpy ) Smith, Mascoutah , Illinois , 62258
To Corky and all of the Smith
Family ..you are in my thought and prayers.
Anita Becherer, Swansea, Il, 62226
We came across St.Rose chapel in La Crosse Wi. They have been praying 24/7 for over 150 years. I request prayers to be said for Jimmie and all of you. This is the Sister’s response.
Thank you for your request.
Your prayers will be prayed for
every hour of the day and
night in our Adoration Chapel.
Know of God’s love,
peace, strength, and tender
care for all that is needed at
this time. We are praying!
Peace and All Good,
Sr. Sarah, FSPA
mark jasper, New Baden, Il, 62265
Corky and Smith family,so sorry for your loss.
Taree McGee, millstadt, Illinois, 62260
Jim was always a friend of mine from the time we met, early in High School. Sharing a love of Rush(and all things rock n roll). Going for rides together on our bikes for hours on end, and having the time of our lives just hanging out together. He was a friendly person with a happy spirit. I hadn’t seen him in quite a while, but I’m very happy that I can say he was my good friend.
I wasn’t aware till now that his mother Anne had passed, who I also knew and saw as a friend. She worked with my mom at PSOP and was as gentle a soul and her son… my friend.. Schmitty.
Mark Simpson, Fox Lake, Illinois, 60041