Obituary of James Rowland Smith

James Rowland Smith, age 78, died in the company of his family on November 5, 2019, in Ashburn, Virginia.

James is survived by his wife, Suzanne Smith, of Ashburn, Virginia; his daughter Gabrielle Odeh, and son-in-law Alexander Odeh, of Herndon, Virginia; his daughter Kimberly Kratochvil, of Springville, Utah; his son Shawn Smith of Frisco, Texas; and his nine (9) grandchildren Jenna Odeh-Hall (husband Spencer Hall), Olivia Odeh, Nicholas Odeh, Giselle Odeh, Jordan Kratochvil, Joshua Kratochvil, Riley Kratochvil, and Sully Kratocvhil.  He is preceded in death by his loving parents Howard Lee and Alma Leota Smith; brother Howard Lee, Jr.; and granddaughter Marissa Odeh.

James was born in Pawhuska, Oklahoma on October 19, 1941. He loved his little hometown and would reflect often of his early years living there. Later, he moved to Carlsbad, New Mexico where he graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1959. After high school, James worked his way through college. He loved his time at Carlsbad Caverns, and driving an oil truck in the fields. These experiences created many great stories that he would later re-tell to his grandchildren. In 1965, he graduated from New Mexico State University with a degree in Business Administration. After graduation, he moved to San Diego, California to work with the Naval Audit Service. During his career he earned the nickname “Snoopy” for being so thorough. In 1966, he joined the Army Reserves and served in Vietnam.  After a successful thirty-one year career with Naval Audit, James retired in 1996. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Suzanne.  His love for Suzanne was shown until the end of his time here on earth. He was a loving, dedicated, and special husband.  Suzanne was his greatest joy. Together, they raised three children; Kimberly, Shawn, and Gabrielle. As a father, he was always present for his children – no matter what the circumstances. He was proud of each child and wanted each to find their own path, but know that he was always there if they needed him.

James was a beloved Pop-Pop. The love that he shared with his grandchildren was unmatched. He loved them, and they loved him.  He made time for them in every way; and could be found attending school events, giving encouragement over broken hearts, celebrating every milestone no matter how small or big.  James loved his family; and his family was his biggest pride and accomplishment. He will always be remembered until we meet again.

His funeral is scheduled for November 11, 2019, at 11:00am located at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 21015 Claiborne Parkway, Ashburn, Virginia. Internment will take place after the service at Chestnut Grove Cemetery, Herndon, Virginia.