James "J.R." Russell Smith

A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM, Friday, May 30, 2014 at Upper Room Community Church, 11641 Blocker Dr. Auburn, CA, and a reception to follow.

James was born in Lubbock, TX, to Porter and Charlene Smith on February 2, 1946. He graduated from College Park High in Pleasant Hill, CA. He married Claudia on February 24, 1996, in Chico, CA. J.R. worked as a service technician and other positions for Pacific Bell/SBC/ATT for 33 years. After retirement, J.R. and Claudia became full time farmers, his true life ambition. Their farm “Blossom Hill Farm” were weekly vendors at several farmers markets in Placer County. He was a member of Foothill Farmers Market Association and Placer County Farm Bureau, serving as a board member of both organizations.

James is preceded in death by his mother, Charlene King Smith and his father Porter Lincoln Smith, Jr.

James is survived by his wife: Claudia. Children: Tod Smith (Erin), Richard Wilson (Martha), Geina Crook (Buddy), Jennifer Brennan (Jim), James R. Smith II, Rich Boelens, and Terese Robertson. Sister: Sharon Smith. Grandchildren: Alix, Chelsea, Jake, Jack, Violet, Cole, Bailey, Marc, and Rebekah.

Contributions can be made to charities of choice.

The family of James wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Drs. Mark Knoble, Ginger McMullen, and Nicklish Thakur. The nurses and staff at; Sutter Roseville Hospice, Sutter Auburn AIM program, Auburn Faith Hospital, Sienna Rehab, and the staff at; Mountain View Senior Care in Rocklin. All of these caring people made J.R’s journey a bearable one. You have been blessings in our lives.