James R. Smith

James R Smith, 71, of Port Charlotte, FL passed away on Dec 7th, 2019. He was born on March 15, 1948, to William and Mildred Smith in Waltham, MA.
A member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, James was saved and a believer in Christ. He honorably served as an interrogator/intelligence officer in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He and his wife Ann Marie moved to Port Charlotte in 1979, where he worked as a drywall finisher for over 25 years. James also worked in the Maintenance Department for the Charlotte County School Board for several years. James was an avid antique collector, loved sports memorabilia, reading spy novels, and enjoyed the history channel. He also was a skilled poker player. A jokester at heart, especially when spending time with his grandchildren. Jim shared many pearls of wisdom with all of us.
James will be deeply missed by his wife Ann Marie, son Christopher; daughter Jennifer son in law (Rodger); 2 grandchildren; and sister Kathy. All his cousins, and Godchild Susan. He is preceded in death by his parents.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 12, 2019, at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL. To express condolences to the family and share in celebrating the life of James, please visit www.JohnsonTaylorFuneral.com and sign the online guestbook. Arrangements are by Johnson Taylor Funeral and Cremation.