James William “Jim” Smith, age 84, of Eastman, passed away Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family at Emplify by Gundersen Health System in La Crosse.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and friend. He lived his life with strength and determination and believed deeply in discipline, hard work, and honoring your word. To his family, however, he was so much more. He was a steady presence, a source of wisdom and strength, and someone whose love for his family was evident in the life he built and the many ways he cared for those he loved. His family is profoundly grateful for the years they were blessed to share with him and for the lessons, memories, and love he leaves behind.
Jim was born on May 22, 1942, to Edward and Gladys (Walker) Smith. Following the passing of his mother, Jim was cared for by his aunt and uncle, Nelle and Harold Walker, in Columbus, OH. He later moved to Chicago, IL, to join his father. There, he graduated from high school before attending Loyola University Chicago for his undergraduate studies. Jim went on to earn his master’s degree in accounting from DePaul University in Chicago in 1972.
On his birthday in 1976, Jim met the love of his life, Carol Delight (Jostad) Smith. They married on March 22, 1977, beginning a life together that would span almost five decades. Together, they moved to the family farm near Seneca, WI, a place that became one of Jim’s greatest joys and an important part of the life they built together.
Jim worked as a real estate investor and successful land developer for more than 50 years. He also believed in giving back to his community and served on the Crossing Rivers Health Foundation Board of Directors for more than 16 years, including 12 years as President. Jim generously shared his business and financial expertise with the organization. His commitment to the people and causes that mattered to him was reflected throughout his long tenure and in the pride he took in his near-perfect meeting attendance.
While Jim accomplished much professionally, some of his happiest times were spent closer to home. He loved the family farm —working the land, caring for animals, gardening, and tinkering with tractors and whatever else needed his attention. He enjoyed snowmobiling and boating, was an airplane pilot, and earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. His many interests reflected the way he approached life: with curiosity, determination, independence, and a willingness to learn and do things for himself.
Above all, Jim cherished his family. He deeply loved Delight and took great pride in his children and grandchildren. His influence could be found in his guidance, his expectations, the lessons he shared, and the example he set. He taught his family the importance of working hard, keeping your word, persevering through challenges, and taking care of the people you love.
His family will miss his presence beyond measure, but they are deeply grateful for the life they shared with him and the love he gave them. The values he instilled, the memories he created, and the family he loved will remain his enduring legacy.
Jim is survived by his wife of 49 years, Delight; his children, Nicole Delight (Matthew) Martin, Jeremy James (Wendy) Smith, Deshon William (Luis Cervantez) Smith, and Carter James (Kylie) Smith; his grandchildren, Grant Matthew (Alexis) Martin, Hope Delight (Max Amundson) Martin, Julius James and Corbin Perry Smith, Kannon Boeckenheuer, and Bridget (Mark) Reicks, and Landon, Blake, and Cavan Reicks. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, Aug. 16, from 1 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 3 p.m. at the Garrity Funeral Home Chapel in Prairie du Chien. Pastor Lynn Schreck will officiate, with burial to follow at Dixon Ridge Cemetery. www.garrityfuneralhome.com
