James Clifford Smith

James was born October 12, 1932 in Buckner, AR to Clifton Smith and Clara Strange. He received his GED through the United States Air Force in 1956 and completed his high school diploma from Stamps High School in 1958.

James was a retired veteran who took great pride in serving his country. He joined the United Stated Air Force July 31, 1950 and served for over 20 years with the Military Police. During which time he earned The Air Force Commendation Medal, a Meritorious Service Medal, The Air Medal, and a Bronze Star. James had a passion for the military and considered it a great honor to serve his country.

Upon retirement from the Air Force, James began a career at the Red River Army Depot as guard through the United States Department of Defense. During the course of his employment at RRAD he receiving numerous awards and letters of commendation.

Outside of the military and his public service career, James was a dedicated family man who was also fiercely loyal, dedicated to serving others, loudly opinionated, and intensely stubborn; all qualities his family loved about him very much.

James was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 63 years, Sachiko (Shimizu) Smith, who passed from this life March 23,2020; his eldest William Edward Smith, his brother-in-law and best friend John Willnauer, and by his parents, Clayton Smith and Clara Strange.

Survivors include his sister, Melba Willnauer of Westerville, OH; son Robert Smith of Texarkana; daughter Carol Smith-Devaney of Texarkana; daughter-in-law Teresa Smith of Wake Village; grandchildren, Heather Smith and husband Leslie Smithpeters of Arkadelphia, AR, Justin Devaney and his wife Morgan of Texarkana, Hunter Smith of Wake Village, and Caitlin Smith of Doyline, LA; and great-grandchildren: Jaisin, Macy, Jackson, Crystal, Charlie, and Junior. Extended survivors include the Willnauer and Bilardello families of Ohio, the Parker family from Virginia, and the Hanson family of Waldo, AR. James had many friends and family; however, the family would like to acknowledge the special friendship James valued with J.D. Drummonds, his fishing buddy of many years.

In lieu of flowers, visitation, and a memorial service due to COVID-19, the family respectfully requests prayers, cards, and letters which can be mailed to 2123 Florida St, Texarkana, AR 71854.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of East Funeral Home-Downtown.

Online tributes can be posted at www.eastfuneralhomes.com.