James Allan Smith

Born July 27, 1941 in Lebanon, Tennessee to Robert Rhea Smith and Louise Andrews Smith. Growing up in a small town in middle Tennessee, Jim Smith was the epitome of a Southern Gentleman. His moral fiber and wonderful education began to form early in life when he entered Castle Heights Military Academy, the home of the “Brightest and Best.” “A boy comes to Castle Heights to learn, and those who really want to learn usually do, but not without the desire and work that quality education demands. “ Adjutant 1967 Jim Smith was an enthusiastic student, graduating from Castle Heights in 1959 as Salutatorian of his class, the second-highest graduate of the entire graduating class, missing the prized Valedictorian position by a fraction of a point. At this time in his life, Jim was revered not only for his intelligence, and his work ethic, but was also admired for his athletic abilities, excelling in golf. These strong values that were instilled into his soul during this time by his beautiful family and the influence of the Military Academy remained with him throughout his entire life. After graduating from Castle Heights, he went to Vanderbilt University, receiving his BA in 1963. He then attended the University of Virginia, where he acquired his LL.B in 1966. After graduation from Law School, he joined the Law Firm of Smith, Currie & Hancock in Atlanta, GA as an Associate, and became Partner of the firm in the year 1968, where for over 32 years he practiced under the specialty of Labor and Contract Law. During his career he had the honor of representing such prestigious clients as Sears & Roebuck, J.C. Penny, Xerox, IPC Dennison, Magnavox, Echlin Manufacturing, and many other recognizable names. The Excellence of his brilliant education, and moral judgement won him the trust and admiration of his clients, who remained loyal to him until he was forced to retire when fate robbed him of his sight. Even after retiring, he was cherished for his wise legal counsel, and remained a present member of his beloved Smith, Currie & Hancock for years, enlightening his compatriots with his amazing knowledge of the great literature of the world, the best in luggage and briefcases, the best in wines and restaurants, his knowledge of fountain pens, both antique and modern, and he loved to share the beauty of his vintage pocket watches with anyone who expressed an interest. Jim had a wonderful sense of humor and would lift your spirits with his wonderful stories. He had a nickname for everybody, and everyone enjoyed being singled out with one of his “monikers!” Jim Smith was an absolutely voracious reader, and read and re-read many of the greatest novels of the world. When he lost his vision, he spent hours upon hours listening to his books on tape. He was truly an intellectual, but one who was more down to earth and lovable than most with his abilities. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends. Jim is survived by his wife, Terri Scruggs Smith, his son Benjamin Allan Smith, his first cousin Tina Rich of Nashville, Tennessee, his cousin Vance Tilley and wife Emeline Tilley of Nashville, Tennessee, plus numerous other cousins in Mississippi and Texas. Visitation at H.M. Patterson and Son Oglethorpe Hill on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 (his birthday!) from 6:00-8:00PM, and Funeral Service at H.M. Patterson and Son Oglethorpe Hill on Thursday, July 28, 2016 at 2:00 in the afternoon.