James "Jim" Gilbert Smith, 77, of Iola, KS, died October 25, 2023, at his home.  He was born April 21, 1946, in Iola, to Eugene B. and Jessie Heldebrandt Smith.

Jim was employed at T.G. & Y. in Iola and then Pegues Department Store and Peel's Beauty Supply in Hutchinson before retiring back to Iola.

He is survived by: brother- Larry Lee Smith; cousins- Kay Southards and Jay Johnson; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by: his parents; brother Leonard Smith; step-brothers- William (Bill) and Robert (Bob) Smith and Richard (Ben and Jess (Roe) Spencer.

Jim had a small group of close friends he considered family: Christopher Britton, Lt. Governor David and Elizabeth Toland, Donna Houser, Levi Flory, Eddie Johnson and Trey O'Hara.

He had a true love for all animals.  In his estate, Jim left his home to the Allen County Animal Rescue Facility (ACARF).

A Celebration of Life will be at 1 pm on Sunday November 12, 2023, at Derryberry Breadery, 20 W. Jackson Ave., Iola.  After the celebration a Golden Rain Tree graciously donated by Levi Flory of TLC Garden Center will be planted at ACARF- 305 E. Highway 54, LaHarpe, KS, in Jim's honor.

Jim's second love was the Iola Theatre Association.  In lieu of flowers, memorial may be given to the Iola Theatre Association in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS  67501.