Judge James Donald Smith

James Donald Smith, a devoted son, brother, nephew, cousin, godfather, friend, and mentor, passed away on April 29, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, humility, and service.
Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, James was raised in a family that emphasized the importance of education, helping others, having a keen sense of purpose, and most importantly, serving God.
James earned degrees in electrical engineering and law from the University of Maryland College Park and the Duke University School of Law respectively. His remarkable career spanned roles in public service, academia, and private practice. Notably, he served as the former Chief Administrative Patent Judge at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and was responsible for establishing the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. He served as an Intellectual Property Law Professor at the University of Minnesota and the University of South Dakota and was the Assistant Dean and Dean of Students at the Emory University School of Law. During his outstanding career, James also led intellectual property efforts at national and multinational corporations such as Baxter International, Nokia, Lexmark, and most recently, Ecolab, where he served as Deputy General Counsel for Intellectual Property and Litigation.
Respected across the legal profession for his generosity, intellect, and leadership, James was also deeply committed to mentoring junior colleagues and to advancing diversity within the field of intellectual property. He is remembered as a quiet force - brilliant, grounded, compassionate, and deeply loyal to his loved ones and to God.
James had a deep appreciation for the arts, especially music. He was a board member of the National Music Museum of the University of South Dakota, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and Spektral -- a grammy-nominated string quartet founded by his musical friend and colleague, Russell Rolen. James was a talented violist who found peace and joy in playing classical music. He often shared this gift with family and friends, filling gatherings with beautiful melodies that brought joy to everyone present. The consummate host and planner, James facilitated many recitals at his places of residence over the years, bringing together family, friends and colleagues for rich, curated musical experiences. This brought him abundant joy and satisfaction.
James's strong faith and principled character guided him in all aspects of life. He treated everyone with kindness and respect. He was excellent and purposeful about bringing family and friends together. James was a trusted source of wisdom and support for family, friends and colleagues alike. He treasured every moment with his family and never took their love for granted.
James is preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Neville Benjamin and Dr. Sheila Sylvia (Ferdinand) Smith. He is survived by his siblings, Dr. Keith Ulric Smith (Amithy) and Nevilla Kathleen Smith, as well as by a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family, cherished friends and colleagues.
His life was a testament to an unwavering faith in God, purpose, and principle. He will be dearly missed and affectionately remembered.