James William "J.W." Smith

James William "J. W." Smith, 87, Reeds Spring, Mo., passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2010, at St. John's Regional Medical Center in Joplin, Mo. He was born March 3, 1923, in Prescott, Kan., to James William Smith and Martha Ellen Baker Smith.

J. W. served in the United States Army during World War II in the Pacific Theatre of War. He farmed all of his life in Vernon County near Metz, Mo. He raised livestock and grew crops. J. W. was a frequent visitor to area sale barns.

Survivors include three nephews and two nieces. He was preceded in death by one sister, Janet Ellen Smith Perkins, and his parents.

Visitation will be held from 9-10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 14, at Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, with graveside services following at Pryor Creek Cemetery, Metz.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the NHS Scholarship Fund for FFA students c/o Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.

View obituary and send condolences on line at www.ferryfuneralhome.com