Smith, James T.

James T. Smith, age 86, a resident of Albuquerque for 45 years, went to be with the Lord, April 1, 2017.

He is survived by his wife, Kazuko (Kay) Smith; chil ren, daughter Mary McKenna and son Talbot Smith

(and spouses); grandchildren, Katie Aguirre, Trevor Smith, and Parker Smith.

He was born in 1931 in Glenolden, PA to Talbot L. and Mary Irene Smith. Jim graduated from West Catholic High School and then attended Villanova College, graduating with a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering. Jim then became a Marine Corps Reconnaissance pilot, serving two tours in Vietnam, and flying anything they would let him get his hands on for 20 years (F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom, A-4 Skyhawk, A1 Skyraider being a short list of the aircraft that he was checked out to fly). Jim then embarked on another 20 year career with the New Mexico State Engineer as a District Supervisor. His love for flying continued into retirement for yet another 21 years after that, flying with the Civil Air Patrol and for recreation. He was a devoted Catholic, and was a long time member of The Shrine of St. Bernadette. He was very outgoing, generous and giving to family, extended family and friends. Jim was a loving father, grandfather, and friend to many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of his Life will be held on Good Friday, April 14, 2017, 2:00 p. m., at FRENCH - Wyoming with a small reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the Civil Air Patrol, Civil Air Patrol, PO Box 5069, Kirtland AFB, NM 87185-5069, or online at: www.nmcap.us. Please visit our online guestbook for Jim at www.FrenchFunerals.com