News Summary
The city of Jacksonville, Florida mourns the passing of James Robert Smith, a beloved educator and artist who dedicated over 40 years to teaching art at The Bolles School. Known for his vibrant public works and commitment to enriching the lives of young artists, Jim passed away on March 24, 2025, at the age of 75. His legacy includes numerous awards for teaching excellence and a global impact in art education, leaving behind a community forever touched by his creative spirit.
Jacksonville Mourns the Loss of a Legendary Educator and Artist
The vibrant city of Jacksonville, Florida is mourning the loss of a cherished figure in both the art world and the realm of education. On March 24, 2025, James Robert Smith, affectionately known as Jim, passed away at the age of 75, leaving behind an impressive legacy filled with creative contributions and heartfelt dedication to teaching.
From Bridgeport to the Sunshine State
Jim was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut to Clarence and Laura Smith. As a young boy, he grew up in Milford, Connecticut, where he attended Lenox Avenue Grade School. After graduating from Jonathan Law High School in 1970, Jim pursued his passion for art and education, earning a degree from The University of the Cumberlands in 1975.
A Lifelong Commitment to Teaching
Jim’s career in teaching began at a private high school in Litchfield, Connecticut. However, his heart led him to the sunny shores of Jacksonville, where he began an extraordinary journey at The Bolles School. For over 40 years, Jim had the privilege of sharing his passion for art with countless students, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.
His exceptional teaching abilities did not go unnoticed; he received multiple Ottenstroer Fellowships and was awarded the Memphis Wood Excellence in Teaching Award. Those lucky enough to be in his classroom knew they were part of something special.
Creating Art and Lasting Memories
Jim’s artistic talents extended well beyond the classroom. He was an active creator, known for his public works displayed at the Jacksonville Library Main Branch and beautiful sculptures at The Bolles School’s Stein Fine Arts Center and the Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church, where he was a long-standing member. His creativity and dedication made the world a more beautiful and inspiring place.
A Global Impact
In 2013, Jim’s artwork took him on an international adventure as he held an exhibition in Nantes, France. While there, he didn’t just showcase his art – he also taught an art class for American and French exchange students. He shared his knowledge and experience as a guest lecturer for Oxbridge Academic Programs in Paris, enriching the lives of even more young artists.
A Loving Family and Community
Jim is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Clarence Lester Smith and Laura W. Smith. He is survived by his brother Lester and sister-in-law Patricia Smith from Walton, Kentucky, his sister Judy Matthews of Novi, Michigan, and a plethora of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Jim’s impact extended beyond his biological family; he also leaves behind many “art children” and chosen members of his “school and art family.”
Remembering Jim
In the coming weeks, the community will gather to pay tribute to this remarkable man. A Celebration of Life Service will take place at Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church on Friday, April 25th at 1:00 p.m.. Those wishing to honor Jim’s memory can make donations to The Bolles School Fine Arts Department, Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church, or the PFLAG of Jacksonville Scholarship Fund instead of sending flowers.
Jim Robert Smith may have left this world, but his creative spirit and the lives he touched will continue to shine brightly. The art he created, the knowledge he shared, and the love he gave will live on in the hearts of his students, friends, and family.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: James Veary Obituary
- Wikipedia: Jacksonville
- Adzima Funeral Home: Carmela Obuchowski
- Google Search: Jim Robert Smith educator artist
- Legacy: Margot Pearsall Obituary
- Google Scholar: Art Education
- Baker Funeral Services: Jamai Duncan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Art and Education
- Legacy: Pearl Williams Obituary
- Google News: Education Tributes
