James Stockton "Jimmy" Smith

James “Jimmy” Stockton Smith left this earth on Sunday, June 13, 2021 in Frankfurt, Germany, while undergoing state-of-the-art cancer treatment, leaving behind his wife of 32 years, Kella Doolittle Smith and his two amazing daughters, Mary Katherine Smith (Bob) Boykin of Charlotte, and Elizabeth James Smith of Spartanburg, 8 dogs and 2 cats. He was predeceased by his loving parents Julia & James Smith, and is survived by his sister, Julia Crow of Greenwood; and by his brother, Mark Smith of Naples, Florida. He is also survived by his sister in-law, Abby (Greg) Kyzer; and his mother in-law, Evelyn Doolittle of Spartanburg; along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg and an Eagle Scout. After graduating from the University of South Carolina, he joined the family business with his father at JM Smith Corporation, where he served as a member of the board of directors. He learned at an early age from his father the very delicate balance of a strong work ethic all the while being a devoted and loving dad. Jimmy was one of a kind; intense, determined, passionate, always in search of knowledge and fulfilling experiences. As an avid traveler, Jimmy sought out destinations off the beaten path that were flip flop friendly with a good, strong breeze. He also jokingly considered himself a prolific bodysurfer always in search of that perfect wave. Whether through travel, mastering the art of a margarita, or playing with his latest grilling apparatus, he always had a project. You would likely see him driving around town with a car full of dogs or on the golf course with his good friends. An aficionado of California chardonnays, he used to say “the bigger and buttery, the better”. There is no doubt the man lived life to the fullest. Many know one of his big loves in life were his pups. His devotion to The Spartanburg Humane Society was unmatched. Upon discovering nearly 16,000 animals a year were being euthanized, he took immediate action, and knew the mission and vision of the Humane Society needed to shift from being a mere holding facility for unwanted animals, to an adoption center for the people of Spartanburg. Jimmy researched, created his famous manifesto, and he and a team of like-minded individuals decided to challenge the system. His efforts saved the lives of over 100,000 animals. Since his involvement the Humane Society’s live release rate is nearly one hundred percent, an amazing accomplishment in one short decade. A private family service is scheduled. A celebration of his life will be held at the Country Club of Spartanburg on July 15th from 5-7 pm. In honor of the life Jimmy led, and the animals he cared deeply about, please make a donation in his memory to the Spartanburg Humane Society, 150 Dexter Road, Spartanburg, SC 29303.