James "Jimmi" H. Smith, Jr., 71, peacefully passed away January 1, 2020, in Lansing, Kansas, with his devoted wife of 13 years, Sandi Moody Smith, at his bedside.

Jimmi was born March 9th, 1948, in Gordo, Alabama, to his proud parents, James H. Smith, Sr., and his wife, Estelle. At an early age, his family moved, and he was raised in Midland, Pennsylvania. In 1967, he received a Football Scholarship to the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, and began his post-secondary education, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary and Middle School Education. Understanding the importance of education in his life, he continued his studies and in 1974, received a Master of Arts degree in Education. While employed by the University of Nebraska, Jimmi worked in the Black Studies as well as the Ethnic Studies Departments. He also provided training for the "Teacher of Teachers" program. In 1974, Jimmi was named the Director of the Multi-Cultural Affairs Office, and served in that position for 30 years. Later, he was employed as the Director of the TRIO Programs (Student Support Services, Upward Bound-Lincoln/Norfolk, Upward Bound Math Science, Talent Search, and McNair). He was a Founder of the Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska Foundation; and also helped to found the Big 10 MEF MAEOPP Education Foundation.

Jimmi retired after working with Emporia State University, and managing their Upward Bound Office for Leavenworth and surrounding areas. After retirement, Jimmi became a very active member of Bethel: serving as a faithful Church Steward for many years; working diligently as an officer of the Sons of Allen organization, attending Sunday School and had a recurring role as the Disciple Phillip in the annual production of the Living Last Supper. Brother Jimmi also volunteered with the Afterschool and Summer Mentoring Programs provided by the Richard Allen Cultural Center & Museum, and also volunteered with the Council on Aging Hot Lunch Program at Bethel. He held a lifetime NAACP membership, and was an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc .. Jimmi's sincere prayers, his warm smile and charming Spirit will be missed by many. Jimmi was preceded in death by his parents James and Estelle Smith, and brothers Melvin and Larry Smith. Besides his wife, Sandi, Jimmi's survivors include a daughter, Stacee McWilliams, three sons, Brian Bradley, James (Claire) Smith IV, and Elder Kiflyn (Ivonne) Ernest Smith, and a stepson, Carlton White. He is also survived by his sisters: Ruby, Elizabeth, Lorraine, and Jeanette; as well as his brothers: Fred, Robert and Craig. Twelve grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews also mourn his passing.

Visitation will be 12 P.M. to 1 P.M., Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Bethel AME Church, 411 Kiowa Street, Leavenworth, Kansas. Funeral Service will follow at 1 P.M.