James Darwin Smith 1885-1906

SMITH

Posted By: Beverly Gerdts (email)
Date: 7/1/2022 at 08:27:31

Columbus Gazette, Columbus Junction, Iowa
Thursday, May 3, 1906
page 4

James Darwin Smith's family is prostrated with grief and shock upon receiving a telegram from Waco Texas, that their son was dead. The circumstances of his death are not yet clear. He was found dead in his room on April 24th as the result of an accidental gunshot wound, and that matter is now being investigated by the authorities. There is grave reason to suspect that he came to his end by foul means.

James Darwin Smith was born in Columbus Junction, Iowa on the 3rd day of October, 1885. He was the son of James R. and Alice V. Smith. His mother died within a few weeks of his birth, yielding up her life to bring him into the world. He grew to young manhood in this community, receiving his education in the Columbus Junction high school, where he graduated with honors in 1904 and was made the president of the Alumni association. He was of a frank and manly disposition and kind and sunny temperament, respected and loved by all who knew him, clear of mind and upright in his character. His many friends had watched the development of his character with intense interest and with fond hopes for his future, and looked upon him as a model young man, destined to become a sterling and useful citizen. To his father he was the first born, that he had carefully nurtured and trained for a useful career and upon whom he relied for comfort and support in his declining years. To his foster mother he was as her own child, a kind and dutiful son. To his brothers and sisters he was a kind and gentle companion, who shared their every joy and sorrow, and to his neighbors he was a model young man, respected and admired. His tragic death on the threshold of a life of such great promise has left wounds that time alone can heal. All that was mortal of this young man was laid to rest April 28, by the side of his mother in Columbus City cemetery, the funeral being held from the Presbyterian church, and the services conducted by Rev. J. R. Vance who was the young man's pastor.