James Edward Smith

James E. Smith, age 83 of Oshkosh, passed away at Bethel Home on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. He was born in Oshkosh on April 23, 1942 to the late James and Leona Smith. James was united in marriage to Sharon Diestler and had three children, he later married Jean Lett and had one child.

A big sports fan, James had a special place in his heart for baseball, golf, and bowling. He loved cheering on his son and great-grandson from the stands at baseball games, and his loyalty to the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers was unmatched. Anyone who knew him knew how much he adored Brett Favre!

James is survived by his children, Debbie (Mike) Becker, Dan (Beth) Smith, Sue Hinz and Jamie (Stacy) Smith; stepchildren, Rick Lett and Shane Lett ; twelve grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren; sisters, Joan (Gary) Wesenberg and Jeanette Pochojka.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Dunn; first wife, Sharon Williams; second wife, Jean Smith and stepdaughter Amber Apps.

A celebration of life for James will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Winkler’s Westward Ho, 4905 County Hwy S, Oshkosh, WI 54904.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the amazing staff at Bethel Home for their compassion and care during James’s final days. He will be missed greatly and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.