He was born in Kansas City to Charles and Gertrude Smith in 1930. During his school year at VMI, he was drafted into the Army and served in the 2nd Division in Korea. He received the Purple Heart Medal among other awards. He attended the University in Kansas and received his Masters in Geology and a Doctorate in Hydrology. He retired from the International Water Commission in El Paso and returned to work at Bechtel Corp. in Houston. He was an avid supporter of the VFW 8790 Post for many years.
Jim is survived by his wife of 24 years, Catalina (Kat) and six children from his previous marriage, Cheryl Foster, Charles Smith, Jeri Horelica, Solon Smith, Spencer Smith and Jules Smith.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Friday, August 31, at Waltrip Funeral Directors. Services will at 2:00 p.m., Saturday in the Waltrip Chapel. Interment with Military Honors will be 1:00 p.m., Tuesday in Houston National Cemetery.
In lieu of usual remembrances memorials may be made to a charity of choice.
