James Ivan Smith, age 68, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, June 5, 2018, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, Indiana.

He was born on March 26, 1950, in Mt. Vernon, the son of Omar H. and Mary D. (Slankard) Smith.

James was a retired administrator in education. He was a graduate of Illinois State University where he played basketball alongside Doug Collins, and continued on the professional courts, traveling to play in Lier, Belgium. His faithful Golden Retrievers were his passion, and he enjoyed hunting. He attended Strong Tower Baptist Church in Flora.

He is survived by 4 children: Stephen Smith (Laura) of Flora, Chad Gustafson (Lisa) of Bluford, Whitney Smith (Courtney) of Louisville, and Kari Bauer (Steve) of Centralia; 9 grandchildren: Adara and Wyatt Smith, Saxton, Mica, and Kolton Gustafson, Quentin Sandrowski, and Dayton, Brody, and Maxwell Bauer; and 1 brother: Ronnie Smith (Linda) of Mt. Vernon.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 brothers: Stephen J. Smith and Robin Smith.

A visitation will be held Monday, June 11th at Strong Tower Baptist Church from 12 Noon - 1 p.m., followed by a Time of Remembrance at 1 p.m. led by Pastor Ron Closson. Arrangements are in the care of Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. Memorial donations may be made to Strong Tower Baptist Church.