James A. Smith, 76 of Staunton, died at St. John’s Hospital, Springfield on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 4:02 am. He was born on March 18, 1947, in Litchfield to Kenton Smith and May Yakos Smith.
He married Cheryl J. (Cherry) Smith on June 7, 1980, in Benld. He was retired after having been a dispatcher for the Illinois State Police. He was a veteran of the US Army after having served during the Vietnam era. James was a member of the VFW of Staunton and a 45-year member of the Masonic Lodge of Staunton. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals Fan and a Los Angeles Rams Fan. He enjoyed John Wayne movies and listening to Patsy Cline and Tina Turner.
He is survived by his spouse, Cheryl Smith of Staunton; son, Jeff Compton of Staunton; daughter, Carrie (Ken) Malarik of Benld; grandson, Joey Orban of East Alton; brother in law, Andy (Rose) Cherry of Pleasant Plains; and several nieces and nephews.
James was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, John Smith and Bob Smith.
Friends may call on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie from 4:00 pm until 5:30 pm. Funeral services are Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 5:30 pm at Kravanya Funeral Home, Gillespie. Memorials are suggested to Wounded Warriors, St. Joseph’s Church or Shriners Hospitals for Children.