James Robert Smith

In Loving Memory of James Robert Smith (Jim, Big Jim, Jimbo, Dad, Daddy, Papa, Santa)

December 26, 1948 – February 1, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Robert Smith, a devoted father, loving husband, cherished grandfather, and dear friend to many. Surrounded by his family, Jim passed away unexpectedly on February 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support for those he held dear.

Jim was born to Oron and Roberta Smith in Englewood, Colorado on December 26, 1948. Jim was the youngest of three siblings and loved all sports from an early age. He was always the biggest kid on the team, but he also had the biggest heart.

Big Jim continued to live up to his nickname. He played defensive end for the Colorado State Rams and worked as a roughneck on the oil rigs. Although Jim was tough on the field, he was a big teddy bear off of it; he loved holding babies and making little kids smile. In the 70’s, he got a job at Continental Airlines and absolutely loved his time there. This is also where he fell in love with his best friend and love of his life, Cynthia. In 1980, Jim moved to Park City, Utah when an opportunity came up to start a T-shirt business. Jim loved living in the mountains, and Utah became his home.

Jim rarely left the house without his polo shirt and cargo shorts, even in the middle of winter. He loved the Denver Broncos, Utah Utes, and the Utah Jazz. He could often be found yelling at the TV when the sporting event outcome wasn’t going his way. He also loved fishing, jeeping, and camping, and he never missed an opportunity to watch his kids or grandkids do the things they loved.

The last few years, Jim and Cynthia had the opportunity to be Santa and Mrs. Claus at Christmastime. Jim was the ultimate Santa and took his job very seriously. His eyes truly twinkled every time he got to listen to a child tell him their Christmas wishes.

Jim was a man of integrity and compassion whose warmth and generosity touched countless lives. He had an extraordinary ability to make people feel valued and loved. His impact stretched far beyond his family, reaching friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Above all, Jim was a loving husband, father and doting grandfather, always putting his family first. Jim’s wisdom, patience, and love shaped the lives of his children and grandchildren, instilling in them the values of hard work, resilience, and kindness.

Though our hearts ache in his absence, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched. His legacy of love and generosity will continue to inspire us every day.

Jim is survived by his wife Cynthia Smith, son and daughter-in-law (Tyler and Bethanie Smith), daughter and son-in-law (Amanda and Louis Monaco) and his five grandchildren (Lylah, Sienna, Mason, William, and Emma).

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on May 31, 2025, in Oakley, UT (more information to come). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the South Summit Athletic Department. (Contact the front office of the South Summit High School for more information).

To help the family smile through this tough time, please send any pictures or memories you have to: thelifeofjimsmith@gmail.com.