James Douglas "Smitty" Smith

James Douglas “Smitty” Smith passed away on August 2, 2023, at Trego Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney, KS, at the age of 68. He leaves behind countless friends, a loving family, and too many laughter-filled stories to count.

Smitty came bursting into the world on July 15, 1955, to Jack and Katherine (Henning) Smith in Hutchinson, KS.

Smitty spent most of his years causing trouble and creating fun in WaKeeney, and graduated from WaKeeney High School in 1973. He spent many years working in maintenance for the hospital and then the Best Western Hotel, using his skills to fix things while sharing his humor along the way.

Smitty loved to play golf and pickleball, and some of his favorite moments were spent hunting pheasants in the wide-open plains with his beloved dogs. But his true love was his life partner Barb Farber; she stole his heart from the moment they met and never let go.

Smitty truly embraced life, living large and making the most of every moment. He loved laughing, and making others laugh. When God said, “Love thy neighbor,” Smitty said, “Will do!” and took it to heart. There’s not a single thing he wouldn’t do for his friends, and as many people have said, “The world could use more Smitties.”

Smitty is survived by his sister-in-law, Karen Smith of Centennial, CO; and nieces Stacy Smith of Evergreen, CO and Amy (Tom) Kelly and their children Bria and Caitlyn of Aurora, CO.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Katie Smith; partner, Barbara Farber; brother, Steven Smith; and young sisters, Carol Lynn Smith and Katherine Sue Smith. He also had many dogs that we know he was happy to be reunited with in heaven.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2023, 12:00-3:00PM at the Western Kansas Saloon in WaKeeney. Smitty would not want us to mourn, so we want to celebrate a life well lived; and encourage you to wear KC Chiefs attire and be prepared to share stories. A graveside service will be held Saturday evening at 5PM at the WaKeeney City Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Big Creek Golf Club and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.