James Anthony Smith

James A. Smith, Jr., 78, of Arcadia, CA, passed away peacefully at Kaiser Fontana, surrounded by family, after suffering a massive stroke while golfing.

James, the eldest child, was born on a farm in Oklahoma to James Anthony, Sr. and Esther Smith. As a young boy, his family moved to Azusa, CA, where he grew up with his younger siblings, Mary, Lemuel and Tommie.

He graduated from Citrus High School and joined the army as part of the Computer Engineering program, stationed in France. When his service was complete, he returned to Southern California and worked as a computer programmer at CF Braun where he eventually met Patricia, marrying her a few years later.

Married for 44 years, they raised their two daughters in Arcadia, then Walnut Creek, CA, with the exception of a 2-year assignment overseas. This assignment gave him the opportunity to live and travel around the world with his young family.

James retired with Patricia and relocated back to Arcadia, CA. For the past 16 years, his hobbies included all things cars and computers, playing golf, watching football, and working on various home improvement projects. Above all, James enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia, two daughters, Jennifer and Lisa, granddaughter Kyler, grandsons, Evan James and Brandon, and his sister, Mary.

James will forever live on in his family's hearts.

Rosary will be held Monday, November 21st at 7:00pm at the Douglass & Zook Chapel in Monrovia, CA.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, November 22nd at 10:00am at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Arcadia. Interment and reception to follow.