James “Jim” Smythe
July 19, 1938 – December 7, 2020
Longtime Batesville CPA James (Jim) Smythe, 82, of Batesville passed away Monday, Dec. 7, 2020.
He was born on July 19, 1938, in Ward, Ark. to Orlin B. and Lilla Smythe.
Jim had a heart for adventure. At 17 years old, he enlisted in the Marines. He had a desire to serve his country and see the world, although he was never stationed farther than the coast of California.
His most incredible adventure began when he met his wife, and the love of his life, Katy.
He graduated from Arkansas College (Lyon) and went on to own his own accounting firm as a CPA.
Golfing and cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks were some of his favorite activities. He was also ruthlessly skilled at cards and board games.
His favorite memories were those with his church family, and he always looked forward to singing in the choir on Sundays.
He loved his family deeply, so it was only fitting that he took his last breaths with them around him singing, ”When the Roll is Called Up Yonder.”
Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Katy Smythe; his daughter, Christie Chapman (Kevin) of Little Rock; his son, Troy Smythe (John) of Corning, N.Y.; and six grandchildren, Kate Shell, Carlos Garcia, Jessica Herpin (Nate), Kristin Kellar (Tyler), Sara Nails (Jared), and Jacob Chapman. He was preceded in death by his parents, Orlin B. and Lilla Smythe; his brother, Joe; and his sister, Betty.
There will be a private family memorial graveside service officiated by Pastor Mark McDonald.
Honorary pallbearers will be John Moore, Carlos Garcia, Kevin Chapman, Larry Haile, Howard Haile, Noah Haile, Seth Haile, Jeff Spence, Charles McClain, and Russell Hubach.
The family wishes to express their deepest thanks to Arkansas Hospice. The patience and love they provided was an unspeakable blessing.
Memorials may be made in James’ honor to First United Methodist Church in Batesville (P.O. Box 2014, Batesville, AR 72501) and Arkansas Hospice (2233 Harrison St. Batesville, AR. 72501).
