James (Jack) Smithhart

He is survived by his wife Sherry; his son, Ken, and wife, Kim; and granddaughters: Brittany (husband, James) and Morgan (husband, Tyler); his son, Bo, and wife, Chris; and grandsons: Travis and Clay, and granddaughter Kaley (husband, Tony); his daughter, Peggy, and husband, Francis; and granddaughters: Jenna and Lucie (husband, Luke). He is also survived by sisters: Clydell and Mayola; brothers: Carroll and Ronnie: and many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lenora; father, Clyde; son, Steven; brother, C.A.; and sisters: Melba and Betty.

Jack lived a very full, blessed life. At 17, he enlisted in the Marines serving in the Korean War. After returning home he started Continental Steel and Builder’s Supply Co. which he owned and managed for 25 years. He also started Smithhart Aviation and Flight School where he too learned to fly. After retiring in his late 50’s he and Sherry bought land and created Lazy Oaks Ranch. He raised cattle and produced outstanding hay crops. He fell in love with cutting horse competition and soared in success by winning First Place in the World Cutting Horse Amateur Division. Jack will be greatly missed by his family and friends; who take comfort in knowing he is in heaven enjoying the friends and family that preceded him in death, and playing with his beloved dog Peanut and horse Freckles.

Due to the Corona virus, a private service, mainly for family, will be held for Jack, Wednesday, September 2, 2020, at Eubank Funeral Home in Canton, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at http://act.alz.org/goto/jacksmithhart .