James Frank Smith died at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta on January 06, 2016 due to complications following diagnosis of metastasized cysts on his lower back and spine. He passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 75.
Mr. Smith was born on July 13, 1940 in Doylestown, Pa. to his parents Margaret Harper and Frank Ferdinand Smith. He graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in economics and was a proud member of Chi Phi Fraternity where he served one year as chapter president. Shortly after graduation, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy. He graduated from Naval Air College in Pensacola, Fla. and was commissioned in 1964. As a graduate at the top of his class he had opportunities to choose multiple destinations for his service and chose to be assigned to the far east and the Vietnam conflict. During two separate tours of duty, in 1966 -1968 on the USS Bon Homme Richard and in 1972-1974 aboard the USS Oriskany, Jim flew over 150 missions into hostile combat areas. His service to his country earned him The Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star, Air Medal Fifth Strike Flight Award, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Aviation Safety Award, Navy Unit Commendation, Air Gallantry Cross, and Navy Achievement Award with Combat Valor and Citation.
In his youth Jim, was a multiple sports star at Doylestown High School and had the distinction of starting the varsity basketball team as a freshman point guard. He also received the Boy Scouts of America highest rank of Eagle Scout and was inducted into the Order of the Arrow. As a boy, dogs were a large part of his family life and this carried forward to his love of german shepherds as he grew up.
Jim married his first wife Nancy Moultrie in 1965 and together had three sons. Of all his accomplishments, he was most proud in life of his three sons John Frank, James Edward, and Colby Harper. He was an ever present, supportive, and loving father who took the time to serve in multiple capacities from Cub Scout Troop Leader to Booster Club President as his children grew up and found their own paths.
Jim is survived by his three sons John Frank, James Edward and Colby Harper, his first wife Nancy, his sons’ wives Stephanie, Francis, and Tifanie, and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Nancy Smith Browne and her children William and Mary.
As Jim’s journey through life brought him to meet and marry Judy Moye Smith, he enjoyed traveling and numerous family gatherings. Jim enjoyed playing golf at their home in Whitewater Creek and never missed a chance to play ball with his grandchildren. Jim is survived by his second wife Judy and also his stepchildren through marriage: Paige Needling, Priscilla Henry and Matthew Tucker and their spouses Scott Needling, Ted Henry, and Alicia Tucker, and six grandchildren.
Jim was able to acquire a beautiful german shepherd which he considered another child, named Titan “Ty.” Jim was able to live life on his own terms until his last days when complications from bone cancer made it impossible. He was taken too shortly from us upon this discovery. You are greatly missed Pappy!!!
A funeral service was held on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at 5 p.m. in the Chapel of Mowell Funeral Home in Peachtree City. The family received friends prior to the service.
Carl J Mowell & Son Funeral Home, Peachtree City-www.mowellfuneralhome.com.
