James Clarence Smith

James “Jim” Clarence Smith, a stalwart supporter of the community died Saturday, January 31, 2015, in his beloved State of Nevada. A resident of Las Vegas since 1957, Jim was born May 20, 1933, in Gandy, Nebraska. He founded Smith Bros. Realty in 1967, which specializes in land holdings all across the valley and is now headed by James P. Smith and Michelle Murdock. Jim attended Nebraska State College and Nevada Southern University (now UNLV). While visiting St. George, Utah, Smith met his future wife Kay and married six weeks later on July 21, 1957. His loving wife of 46 years, Kayola Savage, and son John J. Smith preceded James in death. Jim was a record mile runner in high school and won many state races. He soon left Nebraska and was drafted during the Korean War. Wounded with a broken back he returned to the US and quickly made Las Vegas his home. Jim started his real estate career with Ron Rudin Realty in the early 60’s. A great mentor to Jim was the late Father Gannon who helped locate parts of the “Old Spanish Trail” and encouraged him to travel with his family. He was a lifelong Catholic and was a great supporter of the church locally. In his later years he became an avid fly fisherman while visiting his retreat of Sun Valley. He had an uncommon gift as a communicator and was loved by many for his straightforward approach, generosity, and unique “dry sense of humor”. One of Jim’s most essential business philosophies was to “Keep the Overhead Down”. We know that he is now enjoying a glorious reunion with his wife, son, parents, and siblings. He is survived by his daughters, Sherry Smith of Albuquerque, and Michelle Murdock (Rob) of Utah; son James (Jennie) of Las Vegas; granddaughters Alexia and Izabella; and brother, Jack Smith of Nebraska. Services will be at 11.00 a.m. Friday, February 6, 2015, at Our Lady of Las Vegas Catholic Church, 3050 Alta Drive, Las Vegas, NV. Interment will be at Henrieville Cemetary, Henrieville, Utah

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Cheyenne Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.