James Edward “Jim” Smith

James Edward “Jim” Smith, 73, of Shell Knob, passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at his son's home in Oklahoma.

He was born Aug. 31, 1952 in St. Louis, the son of Jack and Leona (Petot) Smith. On June 19, 2004 in Cassville, he was united in marriage to Janet G. “Jan” Reid, who preceded him in death on Oct. 18, 2017. Also preceding him in death were his parents.

Surviving are his sons, Steven Smith and wife Katrina of Oklahoma City, Okla. and Brian Smith and wife Christina of St. Louis; daughter, Jennifer Stephens and husband John of St. Louis; 11 grandchildren and a great grandchild on the way.

He grew up in St. Louis, where he attended school and graduated from Hillsboro High School. He was employed by Maritz as a shipping coordinator, where he worked for 20 years until his retirement. He moved to Shell Knob and served for several years as a jailer with the Barry County Sheriff's Department. He had made his home in Shell Knob for the past 30 years.

Graveside services was held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 20, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Cassville, under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Pastor Rick 

Cooper  and Mick Epperly conducted the services.