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

He was born August 31, 1952 in St. Louis, Mo. the son of Jack and Leona (Petot) Smith, who preceded him in death. 

Also preceding him in death was his wife Janet G. “Jan” Reid.

Survivors include his sons, Steven Smith and wife Katrina of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Brian Smith and wife Christina of St. Louis, Mo.; daughter, Jennifer Stephens and husband John of St. Louis, Mo.; 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. Jim 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 were held Monday, July 20, 2026, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Cassville, Mo., under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Pastor Rick

Cooper and Mick Epperly conducted the services.