James Shannon Smith

James “Shannon” Smith, 63, of Jonesboro passed from this life Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at St. Bernard’s Medical Center. James was born September 11, 1952 in McKeesport, Pennsylvania to the late James and Laverne Smith.


James has resided in northeast Arkansas for over 30 years, after coming from Pennsylvania. He was a long time member of Grace United Baptist Church in Paragould. He was an avid reader, a passionate writer, and a lover of sociology and politics. He was an English and Journalism major who received his Bachelor's Degree from Gannon University. He was a very compassionate and optimistic person throughout his life. Most of all, James loved people. He was always willing to listen to a person talk. He was happy to hear anyone's thoughts, or share some of his own. He was the kind of person who wasn't afraid to give someone more, even if it meant he'd have less. James was a faithful man, and that faith carried him through his finest and darkest hours alike.


In addition to his parents, James is preceded in death by his step-sister: Jane Lazur.


James is survived by one son: Shannon Smith of Jonesboro; three daughters: Kelly Smith and Janelle Smith both of Jonesboro and Erin Kathleen Smith of California; two step-brothers: James E. Smith Jr. and Rex Smith; and one granddaughter: Addison Rosalie Fardales.


A memorial service will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, January 18, 2016 at Grace United Baptist Church in Paragould, with Josh Carpenter officiating.