James J Smith

James J. Smith, born on October 22, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to James J. and Evelyn (nee Oleniczak) Smith, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family, on December 3, 2025.

On November 21, 1964, James married the love of his life, Mary Ann (Kopps) Smith. She was his wife and partner, his confidante, and his best friend. Together, they welcomed twin sons, David and Joseph, who were his pride and joy.

James was proud to have served his country in the Army Reserves, 84th Division.

In 1961, James founded Mr. James Hair Salon, where- an avid conversationalist- he loved spending time with his clientele and staying engaged in local community affairs. Later in life, he transitioned into the construction industry, working for GSI and traveling alongside his sons. Jim then found enjoyment working for Sidello Property Management; the family extends heartfelt thanks to Ken Sidello for giving Jim the opportunity to stay active in his later years. A true busybody, Jim continued to work well beyond retirement, even serving as a ticket taker at Seven Mile Fair in the month before his passing.

James was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Corvettes, cigarettes, shopping, and cheap vodka- passions that often sparked laughter and stories among those who knew him.

He is welcomed into heaven by his beloved son David Smith, and by his siblings Carol (Jerry) Helback, Ken Smith, Richard Smith, James Kopps, Gerald (Christine) Kopps, Theresa (Fred) Kopps Helmer, Carl (Rosemary) Kopps, and Barbara (Raymond) Kopps Chalupka.

James is further survived by his cherished wife Mary Ann Smith; son Joseph Smith; grandchildren Taylor (Joshuah) Ewing and James (Celee) Smith; daughters-in-law Lynda Smith and Susan Theil; sisters-in-law Dr. Janis Kopps Frisch (Dr. David) Frisch, Candace Smith, Kathleen Welsh, and Sally Kopps; as well as many cousins, friends, and extended family who will miss him dearly.

The family extends specials thanks to Julie Haase and family, and to Aurora Home Hospice, for their compassionate care and support.

A memorial gathering will be held at St. Mary Catholic Faith Community, 9520 W. Forest Home Ave., Hales Corners, on Thursday, December 18th, from 1:30-3:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 3:00 pm.

James will be remembered for his warmth, wit, tireless work ethic, and the steadfast love he showed to those closest to him. May he rest in peace.