James Eric Smith

James Eric Smith, passed away on July 31, 2026, just one day after his 54th birthday, following a long battle with gastroparesis for years and more recently emphysema and other major health complications.

James Eric Smith was born July 30, 1972, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, to Clayton Earl Smith and Sherri Suzanne Dresser Smith. He graduated from Chickasha High School in 1990.

Eric was a larger-than-life character known for his kindness, infectious sense of humor, and an unwavering willingness to help anyone in need. He never met a stranger-his warm smile and easy laugh made him the life of any gathering. Whether sharing stories from his days in welding supply sales or cracking a joke, he had an incredible knack for making people feel valued and loved. He had a passion for riding motorcycles and loved feeding the neighborhood rabbits that he named Mable and Jethero.

Eric is survived by his mother, Sherri Suzanne Dresser Smith; his sister, Toni Smith-Connolly; his sons Colton Tanner Smith, James Tyler Smith and wife Meghan, and Preston Denham; his grandsons, Dayton Smith, Remmington Smith, and Colt Smith; his nephews, Hunter Lynn Mullen and Dalton Clay Connolly; Aunts, Uncles and Many Cousins. His family and friends were his world, and his love for them was unparalleled. 

As a believer, Eric shared that he looked forward to being reunited with his father, Clayton Earl Smith, who preceded him in death, as did his grandparents, Ray and Edna Dresser, and O.C. "Red" and Virginia Smith.

In accordance with Eric's wishes, the family will forgo a traditional funeral service. Information about a celebration-of-life gathering will be announced at a later date.

Our family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, staff, nurses, and the ICU team of Mercy Hospital for treating Eric with dignity and compassion throughout his many stays. We especially wish to recognize Dr. Philip Paul, Dr. Antonio, and Dr. Laura Fischer for their steadfast efforts to provide healing, comfort, and care during these difficult times.