A memorial service for James D. Smothers, 82 of Johnstown will be held at 2pm on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at Brucker-Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N. 21st St., Newark with Pastor Brian Humphreys officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Licking County Veterans Alliance. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Mr. Smothers passed away on February 19, 2024 at the Selma Markowitz Center in Newark. He was born on November 22, 1941 in Columbus, OH to the late Robert E. and Alma T. (Brown) Smothers.

James served honorably in the U.S. Army as an E4 during Vietnam. He was a member of the American Legion Post #254 Johnstown. He enjoyed Ohio State football and his passion in life was fishing.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Diane L. (Burris) Smothers; daughter, Deborah K. Smothers; mother-in-law, Mary Burris; brother-in-law, David (Karen) Burris; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth (Ann) Smothers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Central Ohio, 2269 Cherry Valley Rd., Newark, OH 43055.

To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.brucker-kishlerfuneralhome.com.