STOW — James L. Smith Sr., 75, passed away Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, at his home.

He was born on May 19, 1944, to Harold and Phyllis (Harrington) Smith. He earned his associate’s degree in Electronics. He was a farrier for 20 years, as well as a CNC machinist. In his early years, he worked for Disney security, and in the early 60s–70s, he was a Massachusetts State Trooper. He also worked for GE/Sylvania and had a patent with them. More recently, he worked at Lowe’s on the weekends.

When he lived in Florida, he enjoyed bow hunting and was a Florida State Champion in heavy bow and was sponsored by Bear Archery. James was also a licensed NRA instructor, as well as a ham radio operator. He also liked to fish and hunt, as well as cowboy action shooting, shooting and horses.

James is survived by his wife, Susan of Stow; stepson Christopher Higgins of Portsmouth, N.H.; daughter, Phyllis Dube of Haverhill, Mass.; sisters, Carole Blackburn of Fern Park, Fla., and Sandra Zawalick of Brattleboro, Vt.; a grandson and two nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, James L. Smith Jr.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 2 p.m. at Hillcrest Cemetery in Stow.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Arrangements are under the care of Wood Funeral Home, 9 Warren Street, Fryeburg. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.woodfuneralhome.org