Jim passed away peacefully at home with his daughter and son-in-law at his side on July 2nd.

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Calm and reserved, quick-witted and big-hearted, Jim was a beloved husband, father, and treasured friend. He moved in the world with quiet grace and dignity, a true gentleman. He never sought attention or praise, and he worked hard. He was no-nonsense and to the point, but his love was fierce, fixed, and immovable.

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He enriched the lives of his family and friends; and while he was never quick to praise, when he did, it was heartfelt and sincere, and stuck with you. A master of non-verbal communication, Jim often looked as if he had a secret or a joke in mind; if you were lucky, he'd tell you and you'd share a laugh together. Jim wasn't the loudest person in the room but he always had a lot to offer, and his soft-spoken delivery made you listen twice as hard. 

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Jim was born on a small farm in Turkey, North Carolina to James and Grace Smith in December of 1938. A few years later his brother Harry was born and they were lifelong friends. When Jim was 14, his family welcomed his baby sister, Barbara. At the age of 16, Jim graduated from high school and ventured out on his own. While working at a soda fountain, Jim had the good fortune to meet a young woman who would be his best friend and wife, Dorothy (Dot). They married in 1957 and moved to Washington, D.C., where they both worked for the FBI. 

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Jim joined the Army which brought the pair to  in San Francisco. After leaving the Army, he worked as an insurance adjuster for many years. In the early 1960’s Jim and Dot moved to Pacifica, and in 1969, Jim and Dot welcomed their son, Colin. Two years later, their daughter Heather was born. In 1980, Jim started his own private investigation and insurance adjusting business, more succinctly named Jim Smith and Associates, where he worked alongside Dot for more than 20 years. 

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Jim was passionate about his work and relished watching others succeed and stand on their own.He was an avid mentor and guide to others pursuing their dreams, sharing his knowledge and offering sage advice; but, naturally, only when solicited. 

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​Ever the adventure-seeker, Jim was most at home outside the home and he shared his passion for the natural world with his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends. From camping with family, hunting with good friends, riding a motorcycle, cross- country RV trips, sailing off on cruises, or flying his own plane, Jim loved a good adventure. It could be 102 degrees or 20 below and you'd find Jim intrepidly heading off always properly equipped for whatever the day would bring.

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Ever curious, Jim loved to read fiction and non-fiction books, and participated in a neighborhood book swap. He also enjoyed countless quiet hours tinkering in his workshop, getting his equipment ready for his next hunting expedition.  Dot and Jim both enjoyed entertaining friends in the house they built together.

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​The Smiths were happily married for 47 years and the family was devastated when Dot passed away unexpectedly in 2001. After her death, Jim found the loving companionship of Pat Hanson, who was a devoted partner for over 19 years. They shared a love of reading, conversation with good friends, and enjoyed each other's company.

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Jim is lovingly remembered by all who knew him.  Whether it was for a lifetime or a brief moment, his influence is long lasting.

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In lieu of flowers or donations, we're sure Jim would want you to put some money aside for your own future and to remember the good times with him on your next outdoor adventure.