James Edward “Jim” Smith, Sr
James Edward “Jim” Smith, Sr., a devoted husband,
loving father, and distinguished public servant, passed away
peacefully at his home in Vernon, Texas. He was 73.
Funeral services was held at 2 p.m., Saturday, May 17,
2025, at First 
Presbyterian Church under the direction of
Sullivan Funeral Home with Rev. George Records and Rev.
Darrell Willie o ciating.
A pillar of the Texas mental health system and a beloved
member of the Vernon community, Jim dedicated nearly
ve decades to public service. His career began in 1975
at Vernon State Hospital and culminated in his dual
appointment as Superintendent of both Vernon and Wichita
Falls State Hospitals, the rst in Texas history to hold that
distinction. Under his visionary leadership, these institutions evolved into the North
Texas State Hospital, now the largest facility of its kind in the state.
Jim’s work helped shape the future of forensic psychiatric care in Texas. He
championed compassionate, evidence-based treatment and led initiatives that
challenged conventional thinking, including the rst successful campus-wide
smoking ban and the creation of Village Square—a nationally recognized, recoveryfocused
“treatment mall” for patients. Known for his integrity, empathy, and tireless
advocacy, Jim was a mentor to many and a erce advocate for the underserved.
He held numerous credentials, including Licensed Clinical Social Worker
(LCSW) and Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW), and was widely published
and respected across professional associations. Yet for all his accolades, it was his
humility, thoughtfulness, and unwavering devotion to his family that de ned him
most.
Jim was intentional in his love—never ending a conversation without reminding
his children how proud he was of them. His 37-year marriage to Julie Carol Smith
was one of profound devotion and deep faith. Together, they built a family rooted in
commitment, resilience, and enduring love.
He was a lifelong Texas Tech Red Raiders fan and treasured any opportunity to be
near the water with a y rod in hand.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Edward Eugene “Easy” Smith and Alice
Marlene Rogers Smith, and his brother Ricky Smith.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Carol Smith; children Caroline Smith
Anderson, James Edward Smith Jr., and Alice Tate Russell and her husband Adam;
grandchildren Meghan Hubbard and her husband Kasey, Felicia Davis and her
husband Colton, Preston Anderson, and Julian John Russell; great-grandchild Knox
Hubbard; sisters Theresa Gorton and Missy Evenson and her wife Marilou; and
nephews Brent Green and his wife Jamille, Andrew Evenson, and Jack Evenson.
He leaves behind a legacy of service, wisdom, and compassion that will continue
to shape lives for generations to come.
Memorials can be given to the North Texas State Hospital.
