James Richard Smith, Sr, 90 of West Lafayette, passed away at 3pm Sunday November 12,2023 at the Indiana Veteran’s Home. He was born in Fountain County on May 16,1933 to the late James Everett and Marilla Louise Green Smith. He graduated high school and then he served in the US Army from March 1952 until March 1955. He attended a theological college for a time. James married Joanne Marie Salazar on March 22,1958 and she preceded him in death. James had a varied occupational life, working in the medical, missionary, and a variety of other fields. He owned his own business in Lafayette for several years, being only one of two automotive electrical repair services in the community. James loved music and was experienced in playing at least 5 musical instruments.
James is survived by his son James Richard (Donna) Smith Jr of West Lafayette, grandchildren Jessica Smith of West Lafayette and James (Amy) Smith III of Lafayette, and a great grandson Brennan James Smith at home. Also surviving is a brother Vernon Smith of Harrisburg, PA. He was preceded in death by two sisters Betty Ratliff and Frances Coleman and a brother Charles (Chuck) Smith.
Friends may call from 5pm on Monday November 20.2023 in the funeral chapel at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens, with celebration of life services there at 7pm, with Pastor David Hess officiating. For those unable to attend services in person you may attend virtually by going to zoom.us, enter meeting number 7654904234 and the password tmg2020. Private family entombment will be at a later date. Memorial
contributions in memory of James may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation at Garysinisefoundation.org.
Tippecanoe Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to assist the family with arrangements.
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