James Crawford Smith

ARLINGTON – James (Jimmy) Crawford Smith passed away surrounded by family on Thursday, November 16, 2017, in Arlington, TX. CELEBRATION OF LIFE: Memorial Service will be Friday, December 1, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Susan G. Komen. Jimmy was born December 28, 1943 in Hillsboro, Texas to JC and Ruth Smith. Jimmy grew up surrounded by family and had wonderful stories about his Uncle Will and his cousins. He had one sister, Virginia, who was a steadying voice and influence for his entire life and he adored her. Jimmy was honored to serve in the Navy for six years during the Vietnam War. Following his time in the Navy, he worked in the Defense industry which led to him and his family living in the Philippines and Puerto Rico which was a tremendous experience for the young family, especially his daughter, Lisa. Upon returning to the United States, Jimmy received his associate’s degree from Tarrant County Junior College and his bachelor’s degree from Texas Wesleyan College. Jimmy worked for the Federal Government in several capacities including Veterans Affairs, the Department of Labor and the Inspector General’s office. Through his work he met Sophie Jasinski and they were together 34 years and married for almost 26 years. He was able to retire at age 50 which led to adventures all over the world. Jimmy and Sophie traveled extensively and had remarkable journeys which they loved to share with stories and pictures. In later years as Jimmy’s health suffered, Sophie became his caretaker and champion. Losing her unexpectedly was like losing half of him and he missed her tremendously. He will be remembered for enjoying traveling, horse racing, and loving to tell stories. Jimmy was preceded in death by his wife, Sophie, his parents, and his brother-in-law John Weems. SURVIVORS: Sister, Virginia Weems; daughter, Lisa Gossard (Craig); grandson Drew Olvey; niece, Brenda Grubb (David), nephews John and James Michael (Michelle), several grandnieces and grandnephews and friends.