James R. Smith

It is with deep sadness we inform you of the passing of former resident Jim Smith on October 5, 2025. Jim and his wife Marie were residents of Rarity Bay for 18 years. They were married for 61 years and the love of family was very important to him.

Jim began his cancer treatment in March of 2024. He fought a courageous battle and after a year of treatment, the family and Jim decided to drop out of the program and enjoy what we all wanted – a decent quality of life.

According to Jim’s wishes, no memorial services will be held. A private family Celebration of Life is planned at a later date.

Jim was a 1964 Michigan State (Spartie) Graduate. He had a successful career of 33 years with General Motors in the Oldsmobile division. Jim and his family moved a lot with his career and lived in 10 states. That, in itself, was an adventure with 3 kids!

Upon retirement, Jim and Marie moved to Cape Coral, Florida. They were passionate about golfing and boating, so they spent 10 years there enjoying their favorite sports.

Wanting a change of scenery, they found Rarity Bay in 2005. It was fun to make new friends while enjoying their love of the water and golf. They were captured by the beauty of East Tennessee and made their home here until 2023. At that time, they moved to Kentucky to be closer to their family.

Jim was Vice Commodore in 2011 and Commodore in 2012 of the Rarity Bay Yacht Club.

Their boat “Somewhere” became well-known at the Rock Point Docks during the Christmas Holiday. Jim enjoyed lighting up and decorating the boat along with friends. It was a “Christmas Landmark” on the water! It definitely had a happy vibe and made you smile!

Jim was a member of the Rarity Bay Men’s Golf Association. He was an avid golfer and known to many. He had a great sense of humor and kept so many laughing while he was straight faced! A great smile for everyone and it made you wonder what he was up to! Jim also served on the Rarity Bay CAI for 2 years. He was a loyal Michigan State fan and you would see the Michigan State flag flying proudly on their porch on game days! He was proud to be a “Spartie” his whole life!

Many friendships were built along the path of his life with wonderful memories; the 84 years went by in the “blink of an eye”!

Jim is survived by his wife, Marie, of 61 years; son, Kevin (significant other Marchelle) son, Jim (wife Kimberli) and daughter Sheila (husband, Jamie). Eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren complete Jim’s loving family.

If you would like to remember Jim with a memorial donation, it can be made to Rarity Bay First Responders, P. O. Box 572, Vonore, TN 37885

Thank you for your prayers, support and thoughtfulness at Jim’s passing.