James T. Smith

James Todd Smith, age 59 of Pittsfield, IL passed away Monday, June 2, 2025, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL. He was born May 15, 1966, in Louisiana, MO to Fred Terry and Meribeth Thomas Smith. James T. married Jolene Kaye Schnell July 5, 1986, at the Community of Christ Church in Pleasant Hill, IL and she preceded him in death January 9, 2022.

James T. grew up in Pleasant Hill and was a 1984 graduate of Pleasant Hill High School. During high school, he played center on the football team where he earned the nickname ‘Slick’. He also worked at Bob’s Red Fox and for the Village of Pleasant Hill during his school years. Jamie attended SIU Carbondale and received an Associate Degree in Photography. After college he began his professional photography career opening his own storefront and in later years he operated his business from his home. Jamie then started Supershoots, which were photography workshops that he conducted while traveling throughout the country. Jamie attended Pleasant Hill First Baptist Church where he enjoyed playing the drums and was the audio/visual coordinator. He was a longtime Pike County Theater Guild member where he participated in many shows over the years. Jamie loved to go fishing, and in earlier years enjoyed duck and rabbit hunting. In recent years he became a fan of disc golf and was an enthusiastic promoter of the Pittsfield disc golf course at the lake. Jamie was a lifelong PHHS Wolves football fan and an avid NFL Rams fan. He could be stubborn but loved his family deeply and always beat to the rhythm of his own drum.

James is survived by his children, Jarret (Emily) Smith of Robinson, IL and Jerica Smith of Pittsfield, IL; granddaughter, Kya Smith; brother, Greg (Rachel) Smith of Mattoon, IL; nieces and nephews, Braden (Isabella) Smith, Brock Smith, and Averie (Brett) Peifer; stepmother, Beth Smith; and many aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Terry and Meribeth Smith; wife, Jolene Smith; and grandparents, Leon and Carol Thomas, and Harold and Lenora Smith.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM, Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL with visitation held prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment will follow the service at Crescent Heights Cemetery in Pleasant Hill, IL. Memorials are suggested to be made to Crescent Heights Cemetery. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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