James Emerson Smith

February 16, 2021

James Emerson Smith, 80, of Millersport, Ohio, passed peacefully to eternal life in Christ on February 16, 2021. After graduating from Lancaster High School in 1958, Jim received a Mechanical Engineering degree at the University of Cincinnati and received an MBA at The Ohio State University. He also served as an officer in the U.S. Army Ordnance Corps. Jim started his business career in 1963 at Diamond Power & Specialty Company in Lancaster Ohio, where he spent 13 years as Manager of Product Planning. In 1976, his career advanced to Babcock & Wilcox Company in New York City where he spent 3 years as Planning Supervisor and Consultant. It was 1979 when Jim reached the most satisfying segment of his career by joining Fargo ND based Melroe Company, now Doosan Bobcat Company, the global leader in compact construction equipment. It was at this company that Jim found a home in his role as Vice President of Business Planning and Corporate Quality. Jim’s milestones included numerous successful business forecasting models and implementing lean process improvement companywide. In 2002, Jim retired from Bobcat Company after 23 rewarding years. While at the University of Cincinnati, Jim played football and continued to be a true sports enthusiast throughout his life. His favorite sports were football and basketball, and he spent many years on the golf course. But his true passion was cheering for his Bearcats. He also put many miles on his Harleys over the years and made some great “Harley” friends. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Don Smith and Bernice Benedetti; son, J. Scott Smith; grandson, Stuart Helser, and several “spoiled dogs.” He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jane; daughter, Kelly Smith (Nancy Symbolik); daughter-in-law, Susan Smith; stepsons, Buzz (Diane) Helser, Greg (Megan) Helser, and Todd (Barb) Helser; grandchildren, Tara, Greg Jr., Reid, Nick, Madeline, Max, Blake, Bradley, and many great grandchildren. Jim also leaves behind many dear friends. A private memorial service will be held on Sat. Feb. 27 at Life Church, officiated by Amy Lively. Due to the Covid pandemic, there will be no public visitation. If desired, memorial donations may be sent to Life Church, 5550 Lancaster-Newark Rd NE, Pleasantville, OH 43148. Arrangements are entrusted to Day Funeral Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.DayFuneralService.com.