James P. Smith

Mr. James P. Smith, age 77, of Steephollow, MS., died Sunday, August 20, 2006, in Ocean Springs. Mr. Smith was a resident of Ocean Springs and was employed with Ingalls for 25 years. He retired in 1990 as a captain of International Shipping Firms. He also served in the U.S. Air Force. He was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Iona Smith, daughter, Pam Smith, parents, Perry and Inez Smith, sister, Elsie Smith, and grandson, Joshuah Harmic. Survivors include three daughters, Aloma Ruiz and Belinda Zitko, both of Ocean Springs, MS., and Fran Smith of Louisiana, four sons, Rick Ruiz of D'Iberville, MS., Tony Ruiz of Texas, Lavon Staton of Hattiesburg, and Ronnie Smith of Louisiana, two brothers, W.T. Smith of Gulfport, MS., and Michael Smith of Steephollow, MS., twelve grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, several nephews and one niece. A private family service will be held on Sunday, August 27, 2006, in Steephollow, MS. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com.