James Mitchell Smith

James Mitchell Smith MARION - James Mitchell Smith, 89 of Marion, SC, passed away in McCleod Medical Center on Monday, May 16th, 2016, after a short illness. James was born in Marion, SC, August 6, 1926. He was the son of Ashby G. and Pearl L. Smith. He was married for 56 years to Capitola R. Smith, who preceded him in death in 2009. James served with honor in the Navy during World War II. He was decorated many times for missions while serving aboard the USS Bunker Hill in the Pacific Theater. James spent his life in the service of others. He was a well known local contractor by profession whose attention to detail and quality kept his services in demand until his passing. He also served on the Marion County Board of Education for over 25 years, his last 10 years as chairman. His dedication to the education and athletic programs of the school system led to the James M. Smith spirit award and scholarship being bestowed yearly to a deserving student. James was also a former president of the Marion High Booster Club and a recipient of booster of the year for his volunteer efforts. He was also a devoted fan of all things Clemson and followed them extensively for over 50 years. James is survived by his children, Mitch Smith of Marion, Russ Smith (Kimberly Adkins) of Hardeeville, SC, Marsha Gasque (Reaves Gasque) of Marion, and Roger Smith of Marion, his grandchildren, Jamie Soles( Megan Sawyer) of Murrells Inlet, SC, Jason Smith of New Orleans, LA, Ashley Soles(Mark Duncan) of Marion, SC, Emily Smith of Charleston, SC, Amanda Percoro of Greenville, SC, and David Gasque( Sherri Gasque) of Marion, SC, and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Mable Dozier, and her daughter, Donna Dozier of Marion, SC. Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 19, 2016, in the Richardson Funeral Home chapel. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Entombment with military honors will follow in Palmetto Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. An online register is available at RichardsonFH.net.