James Lee Smith, age 88, of Republic, Missouri, passed away July 7. He was born in Fair Grove on November 30, 1931, to Ben and Ethyl Smith. He graduated from Fair Grove High School before joining the Air Force Strategic Air Command and 22nd Field Maintenance Squadron. After his service in the Air Force he went to work for Paul Mueller as a Master Craftsman. He worked there for 36 years till his retirement in 1995.

He was united in marriage to Ila June Sharp in Riverside, California, on December 16, 1955. His interests included horses, mules, and baseball.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Debra Ferreira; parents, Ben and Ethyl Smith; sisters, Wanita Branam and Louise Lovan; brother, Donald Smith; and son in laws, Dwayne Fisher (husband of Susan Fisher) and David Ferreira (husband of Debra Ferreira). He is survived by his wife, Ila June Smith; children, Jim Smith (wife Georgette), Susan Fisher, Greg Smith (wife Shelly), Kevin Smith (wife Kathy), and Leah Porter (husband Jarrod); 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; sister, Jo Cannefax; sister in law, Carolyn Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was a sweet, compassionate man who loved his family. He will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, July 15, 6:00-8:00 pm. He will be buried at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery at a later date.