James Darling Smith, 94, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2024, in San Antonio, TX. J.D. Smith was born March 3, 1930, in San Antonio, TX to Paul D. and Helen Smith. The family moved to Natalia/Devine area where J.D. graduated from Devine High School Class of ‘48. He was active in FFA, various clubs, and sports. At the time, he was the only member of Devine’s Track and Field team and went to state in high jump. After graduating, J.D. attended Tarleton State University.
Virginia Jones and J.D. married and raised four children, all graduates of Devine High School. He began working at Kelly AFB as a machinist and worked his way up to Director of Maintenance, receiving The Department of Air Force highest civilian honor – The Meritorious Civilian Service Award. J.D. then married Louise Reed and gained three stepchildren. In retirement, J.D. and Louise toured most of the United States in their motor home. He also refurbished old engines to new using his skills learned as a machinist. He was quite accomplished at guitar and mandolin, playing in several bands, one being The Desperados.
J.D. was preceded in death by his two wives, parents, sister Edna and her husband Joel Stiefer, brother Gene Smith, stepdaughter Elaine and her husband Pete Cubellis, stepson Joe Norris, and daughter-in-law Beverly Wilson Smith.
J.D. is survived by his children Larry (Janice) Smith of Bedias, TX, Gary Smith of Hempstead, TX, Sharie (Roy) Brandt of Boerne, TX, Mary (Jerry) Moore of Natalia, TX, sister-in-law Shirley Smith Harris of San Marcos, TX, stepdaughter Lydia (David) Cleveland of Needville, TX, stepdaughter-in-law Christine Norris of San Antonio, TX, and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, family and friends.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 11:00 a.m. at Mission Park South. Interment will follow Mission Burial Park South.