James Odis Smith, Jr.

James Odis Smith, Jr. (Jim) was called home to his Lord, passing peacefully in his sleep, on Dec. 6, 2021. Jim was a generous and caring man who spent his life serving others. Jim served in the United States Air Force, Airman Second Class, as Air Force Police from 1964-1966. In addition to his military service, starting in 1969, Jim had a long, successful career as a licensed journeyman plumber and certified 6G welder with experience working on a nuclear powerhouse in Michigan. Jim finished his career with Miami-Dade School Board as a highly skilled plumber and welder retiring in 2008 after receiving several awards for his dedication as an employee. Jim was a long standing member of Plumbers Local Union 519. 

Jim put his family first in all that he did and took care of them in any way he could from the time he was ten years old until his passing. Jim always lent a helping hand and had a quick-witted joke for those who needed moments of levity. Jim was known by his nurses and care takers as a sweet man with a big heart. Jim was preceded in death by his loving mother Mary Joyce Smith and his devoted sister Nancy Smith Hagopian. He is survived by his brother Michael J. Smith, nieces Jessie Smith, Lauren Hagopian (husband Evans and son James), Diane Hagopian, Marlaine Hudgins (husband Mark) and nephew Dexter Smith (and son Damian).

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am on Dec. 29, 2021 at T.M. Ralph Funeral Home, 7001 NW 4th Street, Plantation, FL 33317 followed by a military graveside service provided by the Veterans Administration at 2 pm at the South Florida National Cemetery, 6501 FL-7, Lake Worth, FL 33449.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude’s Hospital in honor of James O. Smith, Jr.