James E. “Jimmy” Smith, peacefully passed away January 8th, 2020 at James A. Haley Veteran’s Hospital. He was 53 years old.
He is survived by his mother Virginia K. Smith, 1 brother Robert H. Smith and wife Aijin, his sister Rev. Lisa Futrell-Williams, his sister Melody Bonds and husband Carl, his sister Brenda Lauderdale and husband David, and a host of nephews, nieces and friends. He was preceded in death by his father John Adair Smith, brother John (Johnny) Charles Kim, and grandmother Mal Suk Chang.
Born in Elkton, Maryland, Jimmy graduated from Perryville High School in 1984, and proudly served his country in the US Army. Originally enlisting as an 11B-Infantryman in 1984, he later earned a position with The Old Guard to perform Honor Guard duties at Arlington National Cemetery. Some of his military awards include Army Superior Unit Award, Army Service Ribbon, Army Achievement Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal, and Expert Marksmanship Badge.
Jimmy moved to Florida in 1987, and was a member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Jimmy won an award for body building in the 1990’s, and more recently was an active participate of a Men’s Bible Study group that met every Thursday night in Ybor City. He was a long time member of Southside Baptist Church in Brandon, FL, and more recently became a Financial Peace Trainer at the Crossing Church in Riverview, FL. Jimmy had a positive outlook on life and never complained. He was well known and loved by the doctors and staff at the James Haley Veteran’s Hospital.
Funeral services will be performed by Pastor Jesus Pereira at 1st Baptist Church of Gibsonton (9912 Indiana Street, Gibsonton, FL 33534) on Tuesday Jan 14th, 2020.
Viewing/Visitation is open to family, friends and public from 11:00am-12:30pm. Funeral Ceremony will begin at 12:30pm with military honors to follow performed by the US Army and VFW Post 424.
Please reach out to Jimmy’s family to share your support and love during this most difficult time.
Gonna miss you wheels!
You were a great son to mom and a great brother to me
I always told you you were my hero, and I meant it. I will always miss our morning talks and bible studies. I know you are in heaven dancing with the Angel’s. I will never forget you, you were one of a kind. I will always love you.
I wish miss you dear friend. God bless.
Jimmy, You have been a good friend and I have considered you as a brother.I will miss our trips to Bob Evens for lunch.