News Summary
James L. Smithson, affectionately known as Jimmie, has passed away at the age of 86 in Charleston, South Carolina. He was remembered for his love, generosity, and dedication to his family and community. Jimmie had a successful legal career, was an active volunteer, and enjoyed various hobbies and travels. His legacy will live on through his family and those he impacted throughout his life.
Charleston, S.C.—James L. Smithson (Jimmie), 86, Passes Away
James L. Smithson, affectionately known as Jimmie, passed away unexpectedly on May 12, 2025, in Charleston, South Carolina. Born on September 7, 1938, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Jimmie left behind a legacy characterized by love, generosity, and dedication to his family and community.
Jimmie resided in both Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Dataw Island, South Carolina, and spent 63 years married to his beloved wife, Lois Gagne Smithson. He is survived by three daughters: Elisa Smithson Frederick and her husband Erik of Massachusetts and South Carolina, Andrea Smithson Dargie and her husband William of Massachusetts, and Melanie Smithson-Hayes and her husband Robert of Florida. He was also a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Colin and Michael Hayes, Maddie and Chrissy Frederick, and Kyle and Aaron Dargie.
Born as the eldest of four siblings, Jimmie was predeceased by his sister Arlene Raftery. He is survived by his brother Arthur Smithson of California and sister Marilyn Borrelli of South Carolina, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Education and Career
Jimmie’s academic journey spanned across several reputable institutions, where he graduated from Duxbury High School, Bentley University, and the New England School of Law. He dedicated over 50 years of his professional life as a senior partner at Tyler & Reynolds P.C., one of Boston’s oldest law firms, where he specialized in probate law. In addition to his legal career, Jimmie served his country as a veteran of the United States Army.
Community Contributions
Throughout his lifetime, Jimmie was known for his extensive volunteer work with various organizations, evidencing his commitment to giving back to the community. He was actively involved in local charities in both Massachusetts and South Carolina, earning admiration for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and warm spirit.
Personal Interests
Jimmie enjoyed a variety of hobbies that reflected his love for art and nature. He had a passion for gardening, taking pride in cultivating beautiful flowers and vegetables. Additionally, he was a former 4H farmer, where he raised and showed numerous animals. His love for the outdoors extended to golfing, sailing, and traveling, having embarked on more than 10 world cruises with Lois, as well as numerous other adventures together.
Memorial Arrangements
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Bentley University, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Beaufort Memorial Hospital, and the Beaufort Symphony Youth Orchestra, as a tribute to Jimmie’s charitable legacy. A Celebration of Life will take place at St. Francis Church in Charlestown, Massachusetts, on July 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. The family will hold a private burial later in the year.
Jimmie’s memory will continue through his beloved family, including his wife Lois, their daughters, grandchildren, and countless individuals whose lives he touched throughout his dynamic and fulfilling life.
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Additional Resources
- Your Island News: James L. Smithson (Jimmie) Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Legacy: Joyce Smithson Obituary
- Google Search: Obituary
- Smithsonian Magazine: Myths
- Google Scholar: Obituaries
- Dignity Memorial: Sharon Adcox Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Your Island News: Community
- Google News: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
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