James “J.C.” Smith

James (JC) Smith, 69, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, June 7, 2026, following a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

JC was born on February 14, 1957, in Trenton, Missouri, to Amos C. Smith and Katheryn Barlow Smith.

He is survived by his son, Jacob Smith and wife Rachel of Basehor, Kansas; and his beloved grandchildren, Quinn, Griffin, and Tucker, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Thresa Marshall and husband Jerald of Crystal City, Missouri, and Suzan Smith of Springfield, Missouri, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

JC graduated from Trenton Senior High School in 1975, where he enjoyed sports, adventure, and making lifelong friendships. Following high school, he earned his college degree and built a successful career in several fields, including fiber optics and electrical distribution. He recently retired after a dedicated 39-year career as a lineman.

A man of endless curiosity, JC was always learning, building, and creating. He enjoyed gardening, hydroponics, locksmithing, and woodworking, and was rarely without a new project to explore. An avid outdoorsman, he loved black powder shooting, hunting, fishing, and making annual trips to Colorado for elk hunting. He also enjoyed motorcycles, roller skating, camping, and music. Most recently, he had taken up the four-string banjo in effort to learn Irish music. He loved playing his banjos, violin, harmonica, and dulcimer, and never missed an opportunity to go line dancing. A gifted storyteller with a warm smile and quick sense of humor, JC had a unique ability to connect with people and leave a lasting impression wherever he went.

JC loved his family. His greatest joy, however, was being “Papi” to his grandchildren - a role he embraced with pride, love, and devotion.

JC was preceded in death by his parents, Amos and Katheryn Smith, and his sons, Tyler Smith and Justin Smith.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Adams Funeral Home in Nixa, Missouri, with Jerald Marshall officiating. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Resthaven Cemetery in Trenton, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in JC’s honor.