James Ernest "Ernie" Smith, age 85, of Deepwater, Missouri passed away Friday, April 15, 2016 at Golden Living-Westwood, Clinton, Missouri from complications he experienced after suffering a stroke in March of 2013. Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at Vansant-Mills Funeral Chapel, Clinton, Missouri. Visitation will be 9:30-10:30 AM prior to service. Interment will be in Maplewood Cemetery, Brownington, Missouri. Family suggests memorial contributions to Crossroads Hospice and may be left in care of funeral home. Fond memories and condolences can be left online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.

Ernie was born to James and Lena (Moree) Smith in Brownington, Missouri on December 23, 1930. In 1961, he married Marilyn (Thomas) Smith and to that union two children were born, Jim Smith of Lowry City, Missouri, and Cindy Smith of Deepwater, Missouri.

He leaves his daughter, son, and daughter-in-law, Jane Anne Smith, and granddaughter, Jamie Smith, as well as numerous other family and friends.

Ernie was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn in 1995, his parents, four brothers, four sisters, his mother and father in-law, and a brother in-law.

Ernie served in the service for a short time. Throughout his life, he enjoyed coon and coyote hunting, fishing, playing cards and checkers, riding four wheelers, and spending time with his family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, Clinton, Missouri.