James L. Smith, age 80, of Defiance, peacefully passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025 surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on March 1, 1944 to Dallas and Mattie (Groll) Smith in Defiance, Ohio. Jim was a 1963 graduate of Ayersville High School. On December 31, 1983 he married Pamela (Peabody) Smith, who preceded him in death on April 30, 2023.

Jim was a life-long faithful member of St. Stephen's Lutheran Church. He worked for 42 years as a millwright at General Motors until his retirement on July 1, 2007. He was also a life-long farmer and enjoyed raising all types of animals. He especially loved his horses and his cats. Jim enjoyed playing basketball and watching his grandchildren in various sporting events. He will be greatly missed by his family and many good friends. Jim is survived by his children, Todd (Cindy) Smith and Kim (Steve) Brown, all of Defiance, and four stepchildren, Nicole (Brad) Zachrich of Napoleon, Bob Scott of Defiance, Samantha (Eric) Fischer of Sanford, MI and Kristen Addington of Defiance. He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and his sister Kathy (Tom) Wolfrum.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Pamela, brother Jerry Smith, granddaughter Kristina Burk, and step-grandson Jacob Fischer. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2025 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 10th at St. Stephen Lutheran Church, with Rev. William Stottlemyer officiating. Jim will be laid to rest in Ayersville Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Stephen Lutheran Church, or CHP Defiance Area Hospice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.

St. Stephen Lutheran Church Defiance
30304 New Bavaria Road, Defince OH 43512
Tel: 1-419-395-1507
Email: ststephenlutheran43512@gmail.com

CHP Defiance Area Home Hospice
6825 St Rt 66, Defiance, OH 43512, OH