Lt. Cdr. James D. Smith, 90, passed away at his Caledonia, MS home on Thursday, April 6, 2023.

A celebration of life is planned for Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at New Salem Baptist Church, 7086 Wolfe Rd., Columbus, MS 39705.  Visitation is scheduled from 10:00 -11:00 AM with a service following at 11:00 AM.  Graveside will be at Egger Cemetery in Caledonia, MS.

James "Jim/JD/Jimmy/Papaw/Mr. Jimmy" Smith was born November 13, 1932, to the late James Oscar and Nettie Will Smith in Kolola Spring, MS.  He resided within the same area farmed by his family for generations until he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1952.   He served honorably as a corpsman and pursued his undergraduate degree which led to him being selected as a limited duty officer in 1962.  He retired after over 27 years as a Lt. Cdr. Medical Service Corp.  He received numerous awards and commendations during his career including service in Cuba and Joint Service and Army Commendation Medals while in Vietnam.

Following his retirement he returned to Caledonia, and completed his MBA from Mississippi State University.  He retired from the state of Mississippi and Mississippi State University in the late 80s.   Since then he has proudly served his family, church and community as a teacher and leader, supporting New Salem Baptist Church, the Gideons International, and MOAA (Military Officers Association of America).

He will be dearly missed by his wife of 70 years Florence Hagemeyer Smith; his son- James A. Smith (Susan); daughters- Sherron (Terry) Moore, Sandra (Drew) Hitt and Jacqueline (Kevin) Huttenhoff; brothers- Hoyt Smith and Herman (Judy) Smith and sister- Sarah Brown; 8 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents; James Oscar Smith and Nettie Will Smith, and his sister Nelda Brewer.

Pallbearers will be Christopher Smith, Jonathan Hitt, Wyatt Hitt, Mason Myatt, Dion Bradley. Honorary pallbearers will be Herman Smith, Hoyt Smith, Lawrence Huttenhoff and Military Officers Association of America.