James "Jim" Edward Smith

James Edward Smith, P.E., 89, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, engineer, and man of faith passed away on August 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Abbeville, La on March 19, 1937, he later made Baton Rouge his home. He was a proud graduate of LSU where he was a member of the Tiger Marching Band. He was a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and enjoyed a long and respected career as a mechanical engineer.

His Catholic faith was central to his life. He and his family were among the founding families of St. Pius X Catholic Church where he served on the Finance Committee. He was a Lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Canary Islanders Heritage Society of Louisiana.

He was devoted to his family, especially to his beloved wife, Marjorie Chustz Smith, with whom he shared 67 years of marriage. He was a loving father and grandfather whose steady presence and example will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, K.C. and Doris Smith; his daughter, Laura Smith LeBlanc; his sister, Evelyn Bronson; 2 sisters-in-law, Gayle McGrew and Judy Smith; and his parents-in-law, Charles and Eunice Chustz.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Chustz Smith; his daughter Sharon Naquin (Al); and his granddaughter, Blair Naquin; a sister, Ann Lewis (David); 2 brothers, William Smith (Debbie) and Richard Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 8:30 AM until the Funeral Mass at 10 AM.

Pallbearers are Al Naquin, Chuck McGrew, George Kowalczuk, Van Bailey, Frank Roubique and Joe Ware. Honorary Pallbearers are Richard Smith and Bill Smith.