James Edmond Smith

James Edmond "Smitty" Smith, born on April 12, 1936, passed away surrounded by love and cherished memories. Smitty was the firstborn child of Edmond Alvin Smith and Jannie Bell Walker Smith and was the last surviving member of his immediate family. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Elizabeth Christal Smith, his parents, his brother Willie Ray Smith, and his sisters Mary Elizabeth Smith Lindholm and Barbara Ann Smith Uhrig.

Smitty’s life was a testament to resilience and hard work. As a young man, he worked as a sharecropper, sold auto parts, drove trucks, and later found his passion in selling paint. Known for his exceptional ability to match colors with precision, Smitty earned a reputation as the go-to expert for projects requiring exact matches, including films produced in the Austin area. His skill and dedication left an indelible mark on those who worked with him.

While attending high school full-time, Smitty played football, worked full-time, and remarkably purchased a home large enough to provide for his family of six—a reflection of his unwavering commitment to those he loved. Throughout his life, he remained devoted to his faith and lived a Godly life that inspired those around him.

Smitty is survived by his daughter Rebecca Leigh Smith Reed and her husband James Alan Reed; their children Heather Erin Reed Spence (Xavier Ray Spence) and their children Remedy Christal Spence and Lincoln Scott Spence; and James Andrew Reed. He is also lovingly remembered by members of his wife’s family, including Charles Christal children Kenneth Yawn wife Amy and Neil Christal, Patricia Christal Simpson sons Joey wife Wendy, Jerry, Bryan wife Bobbie, Mark wife Angela, Joan Christal Uhrig, numerous nephews, nieces, friends Mabel, Peggy and Jen, and many others whose lives he touched.

Smitty’s generosity of spirit and steadfast faith will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his loss. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Woodlawn Baptist Church Building Fund.

A memorial service for James will be held Thursday, January 23, 2025 from 10:00 AM at Woodlawn Baptist Church: South Austin location, 4600 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78745.