James M. Smiley

James M. Smiley, age 84, passed away March 2, 2025. Born in Prestonsburg, KY to the late Otela and Vyron Smiley. 

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Janice Kelley-Smiley.

He is also survived by 6 sisters: Jessica Corley, Elizabeth (Dean) Sinor, Deborah (John) Sewell, Veronica Taylor, Dinah Smiley (Delores Cook), Martha Thompson.

Also survived by 2 brothers: Nicholas Smiley and Phillip Smiley.

He was preceded in death by 6 brothers and a sister: Ronald, Donald, Vyron, Jack, Rick, Wayne Smiley and Judith Smiley.

He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Jim earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Morehead State University and his PhD from Ohio State University. He was on faculty at both the University of Pikeville and at Morehead State University in KY.

Jim chose cremation and no service at this time. A family gathering is being planned for the family this Summer in the Central Kentucky area.

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