Jim Smith

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

James A Smith, age 75, passed away Friday afternoon at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, MO following an illness.

Jim was born June 15, 1946 in Pittsburg, KS. His parents were James A Smith Sr and Wilma E (Kennett) Smith. He had lived in Columbus since 1976 moving from Pittsburg.

Following high school, Jim was trained in a vocational school to become a certified electrician. He then worked in a maintenance department, retiring in 1999 after 30 years of service.

Jim also cared for his farm animals, including horses. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and attending his kids and grandkids activities.

He was married to Pamela S Neil on June 1, 1968 in Pittsburg, KS. She survives.

Additional survivors include one son, Clint Smith (Jennifer Leeper), Columbus; one daughter, Neile Crane (Jeff), Joplin, MO; three grandchildren, Sam Smith (Kristin), Keri Spear (Jared, Hall), and Nikki Burton (Corey); two great-grandchildren, Cooper Burton and Blair Burton; and his mother-in-law, Kathleen Neil, Pittsburg, KS.

Jim was entrusted to Derfelt’s Baxter Chapel, Baxter Springs, KS for cremation. The family hopes to have a Celebration of Life at a later date.