James "Jim" Leonard Smelley

May 9, 1961 - October 21, 2025

FUNERAL HOME

Birdsong Cremations

1102 39th Street   Galveston, Texas

James Leonard Smelley
05/09/1961 - 10/21/2025
In Loving Memory

Jim Smelley passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 21st, after a lengthy illness. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Smelley.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Janice Barnes Smelley; his father, David Smelley; his beloved daughter, Amy Hartner, and her husband Kent; his brother, Steve Smelley; his nephew, Thad Smelley; and his beloved uncle, James Smelley, MD, and aunt, Lynn Branch. He was a proud grandfather to Gavin Hartner, Victoria Smelley (and her fiancé Dillon Clark), and Abigail Smelley, and a great-grandfather to Caroline Clark. He is also remembered by Laura Ponder, mother of his grandchildren; his lifelong best friend Doug Johnson and Doug's wife Janine; and his cherished dog, Ruby.

Family was everything to Jim. He shared a deep and special bond with his daughter Amy-she was his girl, a true Daddy's girl through and through.

Jim graduated from Westchester High School and The University of Houston, where he became a Life Loyal Sigma Chi. He deeply valued the brotherhood and lifelong friendships formed through Sigma Chi. Raised and baptized in the Church of Christ, Jim now rests with his Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.

Jim had a love for all sports and played football and baseball growing up. He enjoyed fishing and playing golf, and he worked in the medical supply business for over 45 years. He was passionate about his career and formed many lifelong friendships along the way. Among those he cherished were Lynn Branch and Quita Barrett, whom he fondly called his "other mothers."

Above all, Jim loved being a dad and treasured every moment spent with his daughter. His 50-year friendship with Doug Johnson was unbreakable-filled with laughter, loyalty, and countless memories.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Gentiva Hospice Care, especially nurses Caroline and Tiffany, and caregiver Angela, for their compassionate support.

Honorary Pallbearers-Doug Johnson, Kent Hartner, Larry Besong, Larry Moorman, Bill Todd, Jim McKeating, Hays Johnson, Lindsey Walker, Kurt Heble, Thad Smelley, Gavin Hartner, Matt Boles, Bob Hartner, Ralph Adams, John Clarke, James Smelley, MD, and Latane Lamb

Life Celebration Service- Tuesday, October 28th at 10:00 AM Memorial Church of Christ 900 Echo Lane, Houston, Texas 77024

Published by Houston Chronicle on Oct. 26, 2025.

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