Jim was born on June 20, 1938, in Fayette, Alabama, to the late James Smith and Myrtle Nye. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Gaylon Smith; his sister, Sarah Copeland; his brother, Wallis Smith; and the mother of his children, Mary Sugenia Koon.
A true “do-it-yourself” kind of man, Jim was never content unless he had something to work on or tinker with. His love for fixing things, combined with his generous spirit, made him a fixture in the lives of those who knew him. Jim had a heart as sweet as his tooth, and he could always be found at the dessert table after fellowship, indulging in his favorite treats.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Smith; his children, Lyndon Smith (wife Karen), Sidona Ryan (husband Pat), and Nelson Smith (wife Emily); his grandchildren, Alicia Smith, Sean Ryan, Zachary Ryan, Madison Skelton (husband Jason), and Taylor Smith (wife Katie); as well as eight great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Graceview Presbyterian Church (https://graceviewsouthaven.com/) or a charity of your choice.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Thursday, January 30, at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee. A funeral service for Jim will follow at 2:00 PM. A private burial for family will follow the services.
