Jake Smith

Jake was raised in Paradise Valley, Arizona, where he was an accomplished athlete and held a school record in the 400 individual medley. From an early age, he showed a natural talent for engineering, often taking things apart to understand and improve them. A gifted student, he excelled in mathematics, tutoring upperclassmen while still a freshman and earning multiple academic honors.

He attended Claremont McKenna College and later Stanford University, graduating with a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering in 1972. He began his career with Intel in California before moving to Carrollton in 1977 to join Mostek. In 1978, he married Kay, and together they raised four children, encouraging curiosity, independence, and confidence.

An entrepreneur at heart, Jake founded Agile Systems (1983–1987) and then Cactus Computer, Inc., which he led for decades. Known for his brilliance, creativity, and integrity, he was widely respected in the business community. He mentored many throughout his career and held two patents as an inventor.

Outside of work, Jake embraced adventure. He sailed competitively with Kay, competed in water polo tournaments, participated in swimming and triathlon events, hiked Sandia Mountain and Pikes Peak, and even completed a 100-mile cycling race. He also was known for getting outside of his comfort zone, which included building two homes from the ground up, exploring improv and acting, earning his pilot’s license, and captaining a family sailing trip in the Virgin Islands.

Above all, Jake was devoted to his family. He was known for his dry wit, patience, humility, thoughtful conversation, and genuine interest in others. He especially cherished traveling and sharing new experiences with Kay.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Eloise Kay Smith; his daughter, Carrie Lynn Maggiore; and his children with Kay and their partners, Britain Jacob Smith (Angel), Adam Noble Smith (Katie), Blaine Alan Smith, and Claire Megan Smith (Tim Hodges); as well as eight beloved grandchildren.

Jake’s legacy lives on through the family he loved and the lives he influenced with his curiosity, generosity, and wisdom.

A Memorial Service will be held at Rhoton Funeral Home, 1511 South Interstate 35e, Carrollton, TX 75006, US, on March 8, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers the Smith Family asks that a donation be made in Jake's honor to the Society of Science.