James Herbert Smith

He was born Sept. 11, 1930, in Philippi, a son of the late J Herbert Smith and Ruth (Squires) Smith.

On Nov. 28, 1957, he was united in marriage to the former Paula Ann McCartney, who survives at home.

He leaves two sons, Kevin L. Smith and wife, Brenda, of Philippi, and Darren S. Smith and wife, Janice, of Ft. Ashby, West Virginia. A daughter Lauren Johnson and husband Wayne of Clarksburg; grandsons, Cameron James Seibert and Jason Spatola and companion, Shawna Rider, of Fairmont; granddaughter, Emily Zumbrun and husband, Ryan, with his great granddaughter, Claire Marie, of Cumberland, Maryland.

He also treasured his two nieces, Ruth Ann King and Janette Marsh and their families.

He was preceded by a sister, Elaine Smith Hutchison, and her husband, Aubrey “Hutch” Hutchison; a brother, John W Smith and his wife, Marlene True Smith, and their son John W Smith Jr..

Jim graduated from Philippi High School and West Virginia University. He taught general science and was assistant coach in basketball and baseball in Luray, Virginia. He then enlisted in Officer Candidate School in the Marine Corps, was trained as an air control and defense officer. He served in Japan and Korea and was discharged with the rank of Captain. He began his insurance career as a claims adjuster then moved into sales management before joining Strader Insurance Agency. He served as owner until his retirement in 1993. Following his retirement he and Paula were active travelers and visited all 50 states.

Jim was active in community and civic affairs, beginning as President of PTA, Philippi Little League, Senior League and American Legion baseball. He was member and President of Philippi Kiwanis Club while also serving as Lieutenant Governor. He was active in support of WVU and Alderson Broaddus educational and athletic programs. He founded and was President of Barbour County Chapter of WVU Alumni Association.

Jim was an avid golfer and was a member of Barbour Country Club. He estimates that he played 250 different courses.

No funeral services at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held at Barbour Country Club, Philippi, at a later date.

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.wrightfuneralservices.com.