James Thomas Smith 'Jimmy Coondog', 87, of Stockton, Calif., entered into rest on January 22 (2005) at a Stockton hospitals after a long illness. He was born on June 29, 1917, in Newton County, the son of Cleve Smith and Lula Hamilton Smith.
He was a Stockton resident for 61 years. 'Coondog' was an avid fisherman, hunter and outdoorsman. His love of hound dogs and coon hunting earned him the nickname that he fondly used throughout his life. He was an active member throughout his adult life of the Stockton Houndsman Association, and a lifetime member and supporter of the National Rifle Association and the North American Hunting Club. He was also very active in lobbying for hunter's rights in the State legislature.
Jimmy was a gifted story-teller, entertaining young and old alike. His stories consisted of humorous, witty and fun loving childhood pranks of unbelievable, but true, fishing and hunting stories. Jimmy came to California during WWII, spending his career as a longshoreman at the Port of Stockton. He retired after 28 years, and was one of only two longshoremen who originally championed for health and welfare benefits for members of his profession. He became a dedicated employee who continued to enjoy the friendship, respect and admiration of his co-workers.
In preserving his love of the mountains, he annually vacationed with his family to share the fun and beauty of the Arkansas Ozark Mountains, and instill a unique and dedicated love of family and strong values.
Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Ova Norton Smith, of Stockton, Calif., his childhood sweetheart. His stories often delighted his children who loved hearing of their elopement while both were performing at a singing convention. He was the loving father of: James K. 'Buddy' Smith (Martha) and Lula J. Calkins (Jack), of Stockton, Calif.; Joyce and Marquez-Bush (Harry) and Doris Powers (Mike) of Lodi, Calif.; Pete Smith of Redding, Calif; and Carylon Criner (Eddie) of Western Grove. He is survived by 14 loving grandchildren, who will miss the special "Grandpa Smith Smile" and the twinkling blue eyes; 31 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter. Beloved brother to J.W. and Gene Smith of Vendor.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Denver Eugene Smith; four sisters, Walcie Smith ,Dossie Tennison, Abby Eddings and Verna Cash; and two brothers, Jay and Clay Smith. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives, and special caregivers, Edith Lurgio, Mary Pool and Josie Finken.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb.1 at holt Memorial Chapel. Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 2 at Big Creek Assembly of God Church, Highway 74 in Vendor with Vernon Cooper officiating. Committal and interment will be at Smith Cemetery in Vendor.
-Harrison Daily Times obituary.