Jim was born September 29, 1941, to Paul and Madeline Smith in Green City, MO.
Jim was a graduate of Belton High School. He received his B.A. degree from Baker University, where he met his wife of 58 years. Jim received his Masters of Divinity at Iliff University School of Theology. He studied at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and received his Doctor of Ministry from The San Francisco Theological Seminary.
Jim was an Elder in the Missouri Conference of the United Methodist Church. In 1963, he began serving churches in Colorado, Scotland and Missouri.
Jim was active beyond the local church. He brought Cursillo to Kansas City. He built homes for Habitat for Humanity, made mission trips to Mexico, Africa, Nepal and India. He loved photography and took photos of mission schools and leprosy hospitals for the Conference. Jim would live in a tent on a tell when on archaeology digs in Jordan and Israel.
Jim was a Mountain Man. He attended Rendezvous where he was a black powder rifleman.
Jim is preceded in death by his son, Ian H. Smith. Survivors include his wife, Sandy Smith and brother, Gordon K. Smith (Carolyn).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kansas City Hospice House or a church/charity of your choice.
COVID-19 protocols will be enforced at the Graveside service, masks and social distancing will be required.
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