Jimmie Lee Smith, 77, of Dallas, Texas, died Tuesday, March 7, 2023. He was born to Earnest and Georgia Smith on February 16, 1946. Yet, they later discovered the hospital administration didn't record his birth certificate until February 19, 1946. So, he got the rare blessing of celebrating two birthdays!

He graduated from James Madison High School. He earned a Degree in Business Administration from the University of Sam Houston. He was an entrepreneur all of his life. One of his first endeavors was a paper route he started as a young boy in elementary school. Over time, he learned many trades, including welding and culinary techniques. He founded a commercial cleaning services company, oversaw operations, and did a lot of the work himself for a few decades. Always open to opportunity, he never officially stopped making business plans. He was an avid learner. Every day he studied something and challenged his mind.

Growing up, Jimmie attended a lot of movies and developed a love for a good story. In college, he acquired an interest in history. In 2015, he published his first novel, The Wine Bowl: A Question of Loyalty, which is an insightful ode to Dallas set in 1963. Writing was one of his greatest passions.

He also enjoyed music, chess, and staying fit through daily exercise and walking. He was known for his cool stride, charming smile, and witty way with words. He always tried to make people laugh or think.

He is survived by brother Lewis T. Smith aka "LT", daughter Hope, stepdaughter Faith; grandchildren Caitlin, Christian, and Arlington III; sons-in-law Todd and Arlington II; nephews Greg, Patrick, Ivan, Josh; niece Marita, and his extended family.

He is reunited in heaven with his father Earnest, his mother Georgia, sisters Joyce Thomas and Ernestine Woodard, his son Eric, and his wife Dorothy.