James David Smith Jr

It is with deep sorrow and immense gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of James David Smith Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He quietly departed this life on November 22, 2014, just days before what would have been his 82nd birthday. Born on November 26, 1932, in Romayor, Texas, to parents James David Smith Sr. and Annie Mae Parker Smith, James, affectionately known as JD, lived a life defined by love, service, and dedication. James attended Cleveland High School and furthered his education at the DeVry Institute and MIT. A proud veteran, JD served in the United States Navy from June 1950 to November 1953, during which time he bravely served aboard the USS Montrose in the Korean War. His career as an electrician spanned many years at Texas Chemical in Conroe, a company previously known as Jefferson Chemical. On February 6, 1954, JD married the love of his life, Rachel Lee Rushing. Together, they shared nearly 61 years of marriage, marked by adventure, service, and mutual devotion. Their union was blessed with three daughters and three sons, who, along with their families, carry forward JD's legacy. JD was a man of faith, dedicating much of his time to Calvary Baptist Church, where he was a charter member. He taught Sunday School Discipleship Classes with great passion and was actively involved until his very last days. JD's love for music was evident in his ability to skillfully play various instruments, including the guitar, banjo, mandolin, and electric guitar. His pockets were never without dum-dum suckers, which he delighted in sharing with children, earning him the affectionate nickname "PawPaw." A man of community, JD was involved with the American Legion, the Cleveland VFW Memorial Post 1839, where he served as Chaplain, and was a life member of the Odd Fellows Lodge. Together with Rachel, he traveled with the Texas Baptist Men, helping to build churches and facilities in Canada and other pioneering areas. JD is survived by his cherished wife, Rachel, and their loving family: daughters Dianne Smith, Jerry Pearce and her husband Glen, and Debbie Clark and her husband James; sons David Smith and his wife Janice, Leeland Smith, and Dwayne Smith and his wife Terry; as well as his brother Jimmy Smith. His legacy continues through his eleven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren, each of whom he adored dearly. Family visitation will be held at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 25, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. A service celebrating JD's life will take place on Wednesday, November 26, at 2:00 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church in Cleveland, followed by interment at Ryan Cemetery. Officiating will be Rev. Glen Pearce, JD's son-in-law, and Pastor Carl Williamson. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor JD's memory may make donations to a charity of their choice or to the Lottie Moon Christmas Missions Offering at Calvary Baptist Church in Cleveland. JD's life was a testament to faith, family, and community. He leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will forever be cherished by all who knew him.