James Smith

Gulf Breeze, FL – James D. Smith, Sr. passed away on February 11, 2022

James D. Smith, Sr. (Jimmy, Jim, Sonny) was born on January 18, 1937, in Pensacola, FL .  Jim was a long-time resident of Pensacola and most recently resided in Gulf Breeze. He is survived by his loving wife, Jerri Adams Smith, of Gulf Breeze, his daughter Pam Smith Yanni of Vienna, VA, and his son James Douglas Smith, Jr. of Social Circle, GA, seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and his sister, Lorraine Badeaux. He was predeceased by his loving first-wife, Cora (Smith) Smith, and his parents, Essie Ben Jeter Smith and Douglas Smith of Pensacola, FL.

Jim started his career as a lineman for Bell South in Pensacola and successfully assumed greater levels of responsibility making it to the ranks of management. After moving to Jacksonville, FL, and Atlanta, GA he was promoted to an executive position with AT&T at their corporate headquarters in Basking Ridge, NJ.

He was a member of Gulf Breeze Presbyterian Church for eight years and was a long-time member (and occasionally delivered the Sunday sermons) at Hillcrest Baptist Church. Mr. Smith was also a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge #15.

Jim was an avid sportsman and loved fishing and hunting. The family thanks his friends at Gulf Breeze Presbyterian Church, Pensacola Camellia Club, and long-time colleagues and friends for your support and prayers.

Jim’s family will reach out to family and friends once the funeral arrangements have been confirmed.  Donations may be made to the Gulf Breeze Presbyterian Church Congregational Care Committee in lieu of flowers.