James ‘Jim’ Richard Smith, age 93, went home to be with the Lord on July 6, 2026, surrounded by his deeply loving family at his home in Norman.

Born on October 15, 1932, in Medora, Indiana, Jim was the second son of the late Mark and Jessie (Browning) Smith.

A proud Hoosier, Jim, attended Indiana University before returning home to work on the family farm, establishing a lifelong foundation of hard work and dedication. He proudly answered the call of duty, serving his country in the US Army from 1957 to 1959. Following his service, Jim dedicated many years of hard work to Westinghouse, from which he eventually retired.  The true cornerstone of Jim’s life was laid on July 20, 1957, when he was married to the absolute love of his life, Ruth Ann (Robinson) Smith at the Medora Christian Church. Together, they shared almost 69 years of marriage, building a legacy anchored in unwavering devotion, family values, and mutual adoration.

A man of great faith, Jim was a pillar in the congregation at Medora Wesleyan Church. His presence was a comfort to many, and he frequently honored the church community by leading them in closing prayers.

Jim lived his life with intention and found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of home and family. He was an avid, lifelong fan of Indiana University sports, He would often be found maintaining his beautiful yard or tinkering in his garage.

Jim was also his family’s ultimate cheerleader, He was a permanent fixture in the stands, never missing a game or opportunity to show his boundless pride for his daughter and grandchildren.

His legacy of love and faith will live on through his beloved wife, Ruth Ann Smith, his daughter Michelle (Jerry) McCory, his granddaughters, Kirsten (David) Oakes and Jamie McCory, his great-grandchildren, Jared Adkins, Ethan Adkins, and Kinsley Oakes, and his great-great grandson, Carter Adkins

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Howard (Joann) Smith and David (Sandy) Smith.

Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Hague Funeral Home of Medora. Pastor Skip Breeden and David Sawyers will officiate. Burial will follow at White River Valley Cemetery, where Jim will receive his final salute conducted by the Veteran of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, Vietnam Vets all of Jackson County.

Friends may visit Hague Funeral Home on Friday July 10, 2026, starting at 11:00 noon until the time of the service.  

Memorial may be written in Jim’s name to “Hope” Medora Goes Pink.