James Reed Smith, age 76, Fairfax, Missouri, passed away Friday, May 10, 2024, at his home in Fairfax with family by his side.

Reed was born October 17, 1947, in Maryville, Missouri. He was one of four sons born to James S. and Betty (Oswald) Smith.

Reed was a graduate of Fairfax R-III High School, class of 1965. After high school he attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville where he received a Bachelor of Science degree.

On February17, 1994, he was united in marriage to Paula Dunkle at the Methodist Church in Fairfax.

Reed was a member of the Methodist Church, Fairfax, and knew Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

Reed enjoyed farming and all that it requires and involves, including row crops and livestock. He loved his grandchildren and spending time with them, cheering them on at their games, attending their events, and passing to them his knowledge and work ethic.

Reed was preceded in death by his parents, James and Betty, and one brother, Mike Smith.

His survivors include his wife, Paula, of the home, Fairfax; sons, Daniel (Ginny) Smith and Jacob (Kristy) Smith, both of Fairfax, Eric (Becky) Dunkle, Farragut, Iowa, Clayton (Morgan) Dunkle, and Maryville, Missouri; grandchildren, Oliver, Charlie, Henry, Mack, Scout, Everlee, Kierra, Dexter, Ashton, Megan (Colby), Abigail, and Mia; great-grandchildren, Bella, Dedric and Elric; two brothers, Jay (Stephanie) Smith, Fairfax, and Kevin (Denise) Smith, North Carolina; and a host of other friends and loved ones.

Mr. Smith has been cremated under the care of the Schooler Funeral Home. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at the Methodist Church in Fairfax. There will be a luncheon and visitation in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service. Private family inurnment will be held at later date. Local arrangements are under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Fairfax and Craig. Online condolences may be left at andrewshannfuneralhome.com.