STEELEVILLE – James W. Smith, 83, of Steeleville, passed away on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at home.

James was born in Campbell Hill, Illinois, on January 10, 1941, the son of Walter L. and Emma M. Rathert Smith. He married Jeannette Kraus on July 22, 1967 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Steeleville. James was retired from EECA as a Lineman in 2003, and he owned and operated the Lodge and Smith Package Liquor in Steeleville for many years. After his retirement, he enjoyed Farming. James was a veteran of the United States Air Force having served during Vietnam. He was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Steeleville, and BBK American Legion Post #480, Steeleville.

James is survived by his wife, Jeannette Smith of Steeleville; son, James M. (Joli) Smith of Steeleville; four grandchildren, Colin (Kaylee) Smith, Kyle (Chloe) Smith, Cale Faulk and Evan Faulk; three great grandchildren, "his sweet little girl, Charlie Jo", Kam and Kolt; brother, Bill (Linda) Smith of Chester; sister, Janet (Darl) Bollman of Steeleville; sister-in-law, Carol Smith of Steeleville; son-in-law, Brett (Kolleen) Faulk of O'Fallon, IL and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Nisbet Smith of St. Charles, MO.

James was preceded in death by his Parents; two children, Jason Smith and Jeanna Faulk; and two brothers, Howard Rathert and Don Smith.

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 10:00 am, at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Steeleville, with Rev. Mark Harriss officiating. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery, Steeleville. Visitation will be at Wilson's Funeral Home, Steeleville, on Wednesday where friends may call from 5 pm until 8 pm and at St. Mark's Lutheran Church on Thursday from 9 am until 10 am. Memorials may be given to St. Mark's Lutheran Church.