James "Jim" Benny Smith

James Benny Smith, affectionately known as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on March 25, 1942, in LaGrange, Georgia, Jim was a spirited and adventurous soul who lived his life with a kind heart and open arms.

Jim’s journey through life was marked by his love for his high school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Nancy T. Smith. Together, they raised a loving family that included their son, Christopher Smith (Dana), their daughter, Julie Marie Smith, and their cherished granddaughter, Gianna Smith. Jim was a dedicated family man who also held a special place in his heart for his nephew, Troy Smith (Amanda), and found comfort and friendship in his caregiver, Melissa Arguello, in his last years. Predeceased by his parents, James O. and Ruth Hinson Smith, and his brother, Daniel Smith, Jim’s legacy of love lives on through his family.

A proud graduate of Dothan High School, Jim's academic and athletic prowess earned him a track scholarship to Auburn University, where he graduated with a business degree. During his time at Auburn, he was a dedicated member of the ROTC, laying the groundwork for his military service. Jim served his country as a 1st Lieutenant in the Army and spent 13 months in Vietnam, where his bravery and service were recognized with several honorary medals. Following his service, he returned home safely to his loving wife and family.

Upon returning home, Jim joined the family business at Dothan Motor Company, working alongside his father and his brother, Daniel Smith, and making a significant impact on the local community. His adventurous spirit extended to the skies as a private pilot, often flying with Nancy to various car auctions across the United States for both work and pleasure.

Jim was a man who loved God and lived his life as a devout Christian. He never met a stranger and was always ready to share a story or a smile. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hunting, fishing, sailing, scuba diving, and his extensive travels around the world, with Africa holding a special place in his heart. In their later years, Jim and Nancy enjoyed exploring new horizons on cruises, creating unforgettable memories together.

A man of many interests, Jim was also an avid gourmet cook, and his love for giving was unparalleled. He was famously known in Dothan for his banana bread, which he generously distributed to friends and acquaintances, brightening the days of many with his delicious treats. Jim's larger-than-life personality was matched only by his unabashed generosity and the profound love he had for his wife and children.

Jim did it all and did it all well, embodying the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children... to leave the world a bit better... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Jim's life was indeed a testament to success, touching the lives of those around him with his spirit, adventure, and kindness.

As we remember Jim, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, a journey marked by love, service, and the joy of sharing with others. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as his presence enriched every life he touched. His was a life well-lived, a narrative of joy, adventure, and unconditional love, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he so dearly cherished.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025 at 1pm in the Sunset Chapel with Rick West officiating. Military honors will follow at the Sunset Helicopter Pavillion. Jim will be laid to rest in the Memory Hill Cemetery in Dothan, Alabama.