James Edward Smith, 89
April 19, 1936 – January 8, 2026
James Edward Smith, lovingly known to many as “Jeb,” departed this earthly life and entered into his Heavenly home on Thursday morning, January 8, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love and presence of his family.
Funeral services honoring the life of Mr. Jeb will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, January 11, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home, with Bro. Doc Shelton and Bro. Chris Shinall officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Saturday evening, January 10, 2026, at Ripley Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow in the New Prospect Presbyterian Church Cemetery with full honors.
Born on April 19, 1936, at home in Dumas, Mr. Jeb was the son of the late Kimball and Ruth Axon Smith. He received his education at Dumas School and proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his honorable discharge, he married the love of his life, Mrs. Kathleen Richardson Smith, with whom he shared many devoted years of marriage.
Early in his working life, Mr. Jeb spent a short time employed at the shoe factory in Ripley. It was his brother, Tony, who encouraged him to apply with the Mississippi Highway Patrol—a decision that would shape his life and legacy. For nearly thirty years, Mr. Jeb served faithfully with the Mississippi Highway Patrol, dedicating his career to the safety and well-being of others. He approached his work with seriousness, fairness, and resolve, always striving to do his job with integrity. Retiring with the rank of Sergeant, he earned the deep respect of his colleagues and the community he served.
A Christian and member of New Prospect Presbyterian Church, Mr. Jeb was a man of simple pleasures and steady values. He had a deep love for the outdoors and found great enjoyment in hunting of all kinds—deer, rabbit, hogs, and raccoon—often running dogs and creating lasting memories alongside family and friends. He also took pride in tending to his cattle, most often Angus beef cattle, and caring for his Tennessee Walking Horses, which were his favorite.
Well known throughout the community, Mr. Jeb was a familiar and comforting presence. Whether stopping by Hank’s Convenience Store in Pine Grove for his daily visit or sitting on the bench at the Dumas Store, quietly watching cars pass by, he was a man content in the simple rhythms of life.
Mr. Jeb was a man of true integrity and strong character. Reserved by nature, dry-witted, and serious in conversation, he spoke with purpose and conviction—often about the things he cared for most. He lived his life with honesty, consistency, and quiet strength. A good man, deeply respected by all who knew him, Mr. Jeb leaves behind a legacy of service, responsibility, and unwavering character that will not soon be forgotten.
Those left to carry on his legacy include his wife of over 64 years, Kathleen Richardson Smith, son Chris Smith (Rhonda), daughter Joy Smith, granddaughter Ashley Stroupe (Neely), granddaughter Alyson Medlin (Tyler), great grandchildren Payton, Greyson and Ada, sister Jennie Lou Brannan (Jimmy), and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kimball and Ruth Smith, sister Sugenia Tolbird, brothers Tony and Henry Smith, and daughter Kimi Smith.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memoires with Mr. Jeb’s family.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Visitation
Saturday
January 10, 2026
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
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Visitation
Sunday
January 11, 2026
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
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Funeral Service
Sunday
January 11, 2026
2:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
