March 6, 1945 ~ November 10, 2024
Duncan, OK
James David Smith was born on March 6, 1945, in Coalgate, Oklahoma to Richard and Mary Odney (Kent) Smith. He went to be with the Lord surrounded by his family on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at the age of 79.
The family will receive visitors Wednesday, November 13, from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Whitt Funeral Home. Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 A.M., Thursday, November 14, at New Hope Baptist Church West with Rev. Randy Southerland officiating. Interment will follow in the Duncan Municipal Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Trey Eason, Brad Eason, Scott Paul, Charlie Davis, Roger Means, and Kolin Smith. Honorary pallbearers are Sam Darst, Tom Brack, James Henderson, Josh Carter, Darrell Gowan, and Cliff Taylor.
James graduated from Coalgate High School in 1963. He then served in the National Guard from 1966 to 1972. On June 25, 1966, he married Kay Lawson in Coalgate. Together, they raised their two children, Danica and Blake. After his time in the National Guard, James attended Southeastern College where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree. He then began a career in education. He taught shop at Duncan High School and carpentry at the Red River Vo-Tech before returning to Duncan High School where he directed the ISS program and taught government. He was a hard worker, but in his free time, he enjoyed carpentry, attending rodeos, and going to the lake. James loved his family and spending time with them, especially the grandchildren. He also loved the Lord and the mission field. James will be remembered as a faithful servant to the Lord, a devoted husband, and a loving father and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Odney; daughter, Danica Montalvo; brothers: Leon Smith, and Raymond Smith; and sisters: Wanda Childress, and Pat Means.
Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Kay; son, Blake Smith and wife Kendra; grandchildren: Kolin Smith, Parker Smith, and Gabby Smith; sister, Sue Sartin; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
