James Doyle Smith

James Doyle Smith, 78, of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on September 19, 2025, after a short illness.

James was born on September 20, 1946, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to Woodrow W. Smith and Marcia Elaine Tison. He grew up in several small towns across rural Louisiana before moving to Crystal Springs, Mississippi, where he graduated from Crystal Springs High School. He later attended Copiah-Lincoln Junior College before being drafted and proudly serving in the United States Air Force. During his service, he spent a year in Vietnam working as a weatherman.

After returning home, James worked as a lineman in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama before moving to Texas, where he taught electrical maintenance for AVO. His career allowed him to travel extensively across the country and abroad, and he was proud of the equipment he designed and invented to improve work in the field. While he enjoyed his work, he especially valued the times when Shirley was able to travel and vacation with him.

James was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Arlington for more than 20 years. His strong Christian faith guided his life, and he found joy in serving others, especially through repairing bicycles at Mission Arlington to give to children.

In his younger years, James loved car racing, especially slalom and rally events, often traveling with Shirley to places like Stuttgart and Talladega. After retirement, one of his favorite projects was building a 14-foot wooden sailboat. He also enjoyed gardening and caring for his backyard fishpond. An avid LSU football fan and lifelong racing enthusiast, James carried his love of sports from his days playing high school football throughout his life.

James will be remembered for his humor, gentle spirit, and playful teasing. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Shirley Smith; their children, Holly Smith and Jason Smith; and three grandchildren, Grace Smith, Anson Smith, and Bowen Smith. He also leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by two sisters and two brothers.

James’s life was filled with faith, family, hard work, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.