James E. Smith

James E. Smith age 89, of Lima went home to be with the love of his life JoAnne, Saturday, August 5, 2023 while watching tv with his faithful dog Jingles by his side.

Jim was born July 30, 1934 in Lima, Ohio to the late Arthur J. and Gwendolyn (Lesh) Smith. His wife JoAnne preceded him in death in 2004. Jim and JoAnne met on a blind date arranged by their best friends Joy and Layt Ogle. This began a romance that eventually led to their marriage on September 28, 1957, while Jim was on a 3 day pass before being sent to Germany where he served in the Army where he encountered Elvis. Upon returning, Jim and JoAnne built a house together in Lima which became a home to them and their two children.

Jim retired from the Lima Ford Motor Engine Plant in 1993 after 30 plus years of service. It was then Jim and JoAnne were free to enjoy their home and spend every day together. They were synonymous with each other. Jim and JoAnne, Jo and Jim, always together grocery shopping, going to the mall and taking care of the house. Jim had to say goodbye in 2004 to his forever bride but there wasn’t a day she wasn’t on his heart.

After JoAnne’s passing, Jim took up baking. Making everything from peanut butter pies, fudge, banana bread and cookies, Jim put smiles on the hearts of everyone he met. He even earned the nickname of “Great Grandpa Cookies” from his youngest great grandson who also shared his birthday.  Now, Jim and JoAnne are together again as God planned it from their first meeting 60 plus years ago.

Survivors include a son James J. Smith of Lima and a daughter Joy (John) Fletcher of Elida, grandchildren Joseph Smith of Toledo, Josh (Ashley) Smith of Middlebury, Justin Smith of Lima, Jenessa (Jason) Peters of Wapakoneta and Jacinda (Jordan) Fried of Lima, and great grandchildren Jayden, Deacon, Gentry, Jonathan, Emory and Juniper.

Graveside service will be held Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at 3:00 p.m at Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum in Lima with Pastor William Turner officiating and military rites will be observed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Deb’s Dogs.

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