James Smith

James A. Smith, age 65, of Gatesville and formerly of Copperas Cove, passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2019, in Temple. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, August 10, 2019, at Scott’s Funeral Home of Copperas Cove.

James was born on May 3, 1954, in Charleston, WV to the late Clyde and Erdine Treadway Smith. He graduated from Henderson High School in Westchester, PA in 1972. James was fireman and paramedic before moving to Texas. He joined the Killeen Police Department in 1982 and worked 21 years before retiring in 2003. He enjoyed learning and earned two Bachelors’ and a Master’s Degree. James also worked a number of years as a probation officer in Coryell County. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing but as he got older he loved a good meal and spending time with his family.

James was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kelly Smith; and his son, Justin Smith.

James is survived by his son, Kris Smith and wife, Katelynn; daughter, Kelsey Smith; grandsons, Anthony and Tucker Smith; siblings, Michael Smith and wife, Glenda, Preston Smith and wife, Charlotte, Faith Rice and husband, David, Hope Lyles and husband, Allan; mother-in-law, Joann King and numerous nieces and nephews.