James Lyle Smith Jr.

Smith, James, age 76, of Riverside, CA., passed away at Jennifer Moreno, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, due to complications related to bladder cancer. James was born on November 28, 1946, in Huntington, Indiana. His Honorable service in the US Navy from May 12, 1967, to February 4, 1971, during the Viet. NAM as an Engine Mechanic. His decorations, medals, and ribbons included the National Defense Service Medal, Viet.NAM Service Medal, and the Republic of Viet. NAM Campaign Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon. Our Daddy also assisted in the family-owned business of J.L. Smith and Sons Vending. He was also an active member of ARRL, writing many articles for their magazine. He also provided communication within government agencies in times of extraordinary need through Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (R.A.C.E.S). His love for amateur radio led him to open his own Ham Radio store, the Electronic Candy Store, in Riverside, CA. James is survived by his brother Mike D. Smith (Diana Smith); his daughters Angela Leggett (James Leggett) and Jammie Smith, his three grandsons, and three granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ruth Smith. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to your favorite veteran charity or local R.A.C.E.S organization.