James R. Smith

Smith, James Ross 89, was received into God's heavenly choir April 23, 2016. James was a member of the Haysville United Methodist Men and Chancel Choir, Plumber and Pipefitters Union #441, Descendants of the Mayflower, and volunteer for the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. He was a devoted family man and a loving father who doted on his children and grandchildren. James not only took care of his family, he took care of friends and neighbors as well, but helping others was just one of his passions, he loved to sing. James could be found singing while doing day to day chores. He sang at many weddings, funerals, and nursing homes. He also sang at his wedding to Rosemary, and continued his singing legacy by singing at his daughters' weddings too. He was the kind of man you felt like you had known forever even when you had just met. James is preceded in death by parents Ferd and Nora; brothers, Bobby (Doris) Smith and Ferd (Rae) (Geneva) Smith; sisters, Retha (Clarence) Fowler and Birdie (Ray) Baker, and brother-in-laws, Austin (Ramona) Wright and Jack Shortle. James is survived by wife of 63 years, Rosemary Smith; daughters, Kathy (Stan) Crow and Nancy (Dale) Wolfe; grandchildren, Patrick, Carrie Crow, and Derek Biggers; sister-in-law, Elenaor Shortle; and many nieces, nephews, church family, and friends. A visitation will be held April 29th from 6-8 PM and funeral services will be held Saturday April 30th at 2:00 PM both at Haysville United Methodist Church with burial at Resthaven Gardens of Memory to follow. Memorial donations may be made to benefit the Music Program at Haysville UMC.