James Smith

James Rutledge Smith was born a Democrat on Saturday, November 12, 1927 in Caledonia, Missouri in the Methodist church parsonage where his parents were living at that time. Jim was a son to the late Hunter Issac Smith and Jeannette (Rutledge) Smith. Jim departed this life on April 8, 2013 at his residence having reached the age of eighty five years, four months and twenty seven days.

Jim served in the United States Merchant Marines from April 11, 1945 through November 1946. Jim was recognized in December of 2000 for his service during the Cold War (September 2, 1945 – December 26, 1991) in promoting peace and stability for this Nation.

Jim was a member of the Caledonia Methodist Church, Belgrade Lions Club, Tyro #12 Masonic Lodge for 60 years, devout member of the Washington County Democrat Club, Committeeman for Caledonia, The Popular Road Craft Association and the Jim Smith Society.

The Caledonia Stock Farm was recognized as a "Century Farm" in 1977, where Jim resided and lived most of his life.
Jim was a pilot. He owns the "Short-n-Ruff" Airstrip, home of the Quiverin Queen, (his alfalfa field and gyro-plane). He served as a member of the Potosi Airport Directors.

Those who remain to mourn his passing are his daughters Glenda Coleman and husband Lynn of Potosi, Janet Smith of Caledonia, Betty Giles and husband Ted of St. Louis, Connie Walton of Farmington, Patricia Lawson of California, Missouri; two sons Dannie Johnson and wife Vivian of Caledonia, Johnny Johnson of New Mexico; sister Ava Gay Britton and husband John of Cuba; two nieces Patty Campbell and husband Bruce of Cuba, Jane Eads and husband Steve of Cuba; fifteen grandchildren; twenty six great grandchildren; many other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by wife Verla Smith, daughter Mary Gaynel Smith and a son Hunter Edmond Smith.

Funeral services were conducted on Friday, April 12, 2013 at 11 AM at the DeClue Chapel with Elder Leonard Compton and Rev. Rick Lasley officiating. Serving as pallbearers were James Smith, Robert Smith, Michael Walton, Tim Gibson, Issac Barron and Jared Walton.

Interment and final prayers were held at the Caledonia Methodist Cemetery where full Military Honors were presented by the United States Marines and local VWF Post #6996. All arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the DeClue Funeral Home.