Jesse James Smith

Mr. Jesse James Smith, 72, of Blytheville, passed away Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012, in his home surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was born April 28, 1940, in Prairie, Miss.

Mr. Smith was a hardworking man who took care of his family. He didn't really go anywhere or feel the need to go anywhere, he was just a laid back person. He really enjoyed working on cars and fixing lawnmowers. He also loved doing yard work and fishing.

He had worked at Blytheville Compress, the steel mill, Blytheville Iron and Metal, and his last employment was with Best Way Metal Fabricators until his health wouldn't allow him to work anymore.

Mr. Smith was preceded in death by his father, the Rev. Glaze Smith, and his mother, Essie Gay Smith, whom he loved very much.

He leaves to cherish his memories his lovely wife of 35 years, Patsy Middleton-Smith, of Blytheville;

Two sons, Dwayne Middleton, of Blytheville, and Ricky Hampton of Memphis;

Three daughters, Kimberly Middleton of Bedford, Texas and Loretta Smith and Leletha Smith, both of Fort Worth, Texas;

Ten grandchildren;

Three aunts, Martha McMIllian, of Prairie, Miss., and Virgie McMillian and Iona Collins, both of Chicago.

He had two special friends that he cherished, Benny Northern and Frankie Williams, both of Blytheville.; and

A host of other relatives and friends.

His family says, "Jesse will be remembered as a great man, husband, father, grandfather and friend who inspired everyone he met. He will be truly missed and will be in our hearts forever."

Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday at Carney Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Christine Bennett officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time Saturday. Burial will be in Carney Cemetery. Condolences may be shared at www.carneyfuneralhome.com