James Russell Smith

James Russell Smith, age 83 of Cedar Hill, Texas, formerly of Monticello, passed away Monday, June 30, 2014 in Cedar Hill, Texas. He was born Feb. 2, 1931 in Dermott, Ark. the son of the late Homer and Madie Smith. Blessed to be raised in Monticello, graduating from Monticello High School in 1948. Countless fun family hours were spent hearing stories of growing up in Monticello and the many friends and happy memories made there. He retired from LTV and proudly served in the United States Navy for four years. He returned to his beloved hometown in 1989, living there since, until his health took him to Texas to be near his children. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Priscilla Smith. Survivors include two sons, Larry Smith and wife Kathie of Cedar Hill, Texas and Kyle Smith and wife Alexa of Red Oak, Texas; two daughters, Teri Lauderdale and husband Jim of DeSoto, Texas and Beth Price of Burleson, Texas; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Memorials to: Arkansas Children's Hospital, 800 Marshall St., Slot 661, Little Rock, Ark. 72202, Baptist Home for Children, PO Box 427, Monticello, Ark. 71657 or Presbyterian Home for Children, 745 Old Warren Rd., Monticello, Ark. 71655. A Memorial service will be held at a later date. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.