Jim Smith

Jim Smith, 90, passed away on September 20, 2026. He was born March 14, 1936, in South Bend, Indiana, to William and Dorothy Smith. He was the first of two children.

Jim attended James Whitcomb Riley High School in South Bend through the 10th grade. Growing up on a farm, he developed a strong work ethic and a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. He helped repair tractors, mowed lawns, and enjoyed helping on the neighboring farms. At the age of 16, Jim got his first motorcycle, an Indian, beginning a lifelong love of motorcycles and riding.

Jim met Myrtle Snyder while they were both working at RACO in South Bend. Their first date was August 31, 1970. Myrtle had always wanted Jim to take her for a ride on his 1956 Harley Davidson, and Jim surprised her one afternoon by arriving at her parents' home on the motorcycle. They were married on February 6, 1971, at Community Gospel Church in Bremen, Indiana.

Jim and Myrtle began attending Community Gospel Church shortly after their first date, and Jim remained an active member and usher for 55 years. His faith and his church family were an important part of his life.

Jim and Myrtle’s loving relationship was something to be envied. They were blessed with two daughters: Teresa Smith-Armstrong (Rob), of Berthoud, Colorado; and Tomma Doerksen (Frank), of Brokstedt, Germany. Tomma first came into the family as an exchange student from Germany and became a cherished daughter at heart, remaining an important and beloved part of the family. He was also especially fond of his granddaughters by heart, Morgan Thoma of Walkerton, Indiana, and Raegan Grosselin of Lakeville, Indiana, and three great grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothy Smith, and his sister, Lorraine Shuey, all of South Bend, Indiana.

Jim will be remembered for his love of family, his devotion to Myrtle, his faith, his hardworking nature, and his love of the outdoors. His life was filled with love, family, faith, and many cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.