James DeWayne Smith

James DeWayne Smith, 61, of Jefferson City, passed away on August 4, 2018 in Columbia. DeWayne was born on July 15, 1957 in St. Louis, the dear son of the late James Leroy Smith and Violet Louise Darnell. DeWayne joined the U.S. Navy immediately following high school graduation in 1975, where he traveled the world on the USS Enterprise. Upon honorable military discharge, DeWayne started a family of his own.

He was a member of the Society of American Magicians, an avid reader, a big sports fan and he rarely missed an episode of Jeopardy with Alex Trebek. DeWayne enjoyed spending time with family and any trips he could take to the local library.

DeWayne is survived by his cherished children, Crystal (Brad) Tennesen and James A. Smith, and grandchildren, Gavin and Kara Tennesen. He was a beloved brother to siblings Mitzi (Melvin, Sr.) Rose, the late Mallie Leroy Smith and the late Misti Richards. He was also a much-loved uncle and great-uncle to many. DeWayne was a great man with a keen ability to make people smile and laugh. He will be missed by all.

A  private service will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis. A Celebration of Life, to which all family and friends are welcome, will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Harry S Truman VA Hospital in memory of James DeWayne Smith c/o Voluntary Services, 800 Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65201.

Condolences

  1. Janice tennesen on August 7, 2018 at 5:53 pm

    Crystal, So sorry for your loss, it sounds like your dad was one heck of a guy. All of you are in my prayers.Take care. Much love????



  2. Kathy Dice on August 8, 2018 at 6:44 am

    I’m so sorry for your loss. Your family are in my prayers.. He was truly a great man..



  3. Kitty Gaskins on August 8, 2018 at 9:21 am

    Mitzi I am so sorry about your brother I know it’s hard and I wish I could be there for you. If you need to talk you can give me a call and remember he’s not suffering no more and I loved you and keep your head up



  4. Donald Mcroberts on August 8, 2018 at 12:52 pm

    So sorry for your loss James will be missed



  5. Pierce family on August 9, 2018 at 9:23 am

    Prayers and fond memories are what we have to remember our dearly departed. My most heartfelt condolences.



  6. Charla S. Pierce-Beck on August 9, 2018 at 9:41 am

    Mitzi and Family-

    You are in my thoughts and prayers. My strongest memories of DeWayne come from our many visits to Missouri when we were kids. He was always laughing and enjoying family and friends. I am imagining that Uncle Jim, Grandma Smith, and my mom are having the best time together.

    Cares and Prayers from Dixon Illinois



  7. Chuck Pierce on August 9, 2018 at 8:44 pm

    I am very saddened to hear of DeWaynes death. May he rest
    In peace
    My best to his family. If his
    Aunt Jan was living she would be very hurt as she loved and cared
    For DeWayne deeply.
    Uncle Chuck Pierce



  8. Ponda McKinley Wood on August 10, 2018 at 7:47 pm

    So very sorry to hear of you and your families loss. Prayers for all for comfort and peace.



  9. Mr. Mark S. Arneson on August 10, 2018 at 11:12 pm

    Crystal I’m so sorry for your loss. It must be really difficult losing your father. My god be with you and your family during these difficult times.



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