WATERVILLE – James Allan Smith “AKA: Big Jim”, 87, passed away at his home on April 15, 2022. Jim was born in Bangor on Dec. 30, 1934, the son of Oscar and Pauline (Stewart) Smith.He attended schools in Waterville and graduated from Oak Grove Coburn and attended Colby College.Jim proudly served in the U.S. Air Force in Korea. He was a finance specialist and he received three medals during his service: Good Conduct, Overseas Service and Expert Sharpshooter. After his time in the Air Force, he worked as a salesman for his family business, Eastern Packing, which was later sold to Jordan’s Meats. He also worked for Ladd Paper Company and Jerry’s Furniture. In the early 1970’s he bought the EZ Stop convenience store. In the mid 1970’s, he opened Jim’s Gun Shop, and later he turned the operations over to his son, Jimmy, but remained active in the business for more than 40 years. He was proud of the fact that he was the largest gun dealer in New England with over 2,500 guns. As a young man he always enjoyed playing pool at the D & A and went on to become Maine State Pool Champion in 1968. He was instrumental in getting TJ’s Billiards established. Jim loved playing pool but it became difficult at his age so he became a spectator. He left us doing what he enjoyed the most watching the guys play pool.Jim was an active member in the Elks, the Masons, the Shriners and also a lifetime member of the NRA. His interests also included collecting antique cars and playing billiards. He liked pawning, and he loved sports.Jim was a loving, caring husband, father, grandfather, and stepfather whom we will all miss. He supported us all in our life decisions and took pride on us all.Jim enjoyed the simple routines in his life. Whether it was going to Bee’s Diner for breakfast, checking out Marden’s and Lakeview Lumber. Going to breakfast with his wife on Sunday’s with their friends, while still making time for his family.He and his wife, George Ann enjoyed wintering in Oldsmar, Florida for 24 years. They also enjoyed visiting flea markets whenever possible. Jim found singing to be enjoyable and George Ann loved to listen to him sing.Jim was predeceased by his parents and his daughter, Julie A. Smith.He is survived by his wife of 36 years, George Ann Smith; son, James G. Smith and fiancée Kathy Cunningham of Vassalboro; daughter, Joanna L. Bearce and husband, Jeffrey of Belgrade; stepdaughter, Susan Brown and her partner, Chris Chesley of Benton; step-daughter, Janet Quirion and her husband, Carl Winslow. His grandchildren include Justin Bearce and partner, Tabitha Doak of Waterville; Jayson Bearce and wife, Juli of Navarre, Florida; Amanda Turner and husband, Randy of Unity; Erin Estes and husband Steve of Hermon; Danielle Quirion and her partner, Nicolas Delli Paoli of Gardiner; and Monique Quirion and her partner, Fenton Cummings of Saco. He’s also survived by four great-grandchildren, a niece, Alexandra Pierce of Stratford, Connecticut, and children. Last but not least he will be missed by his lap dog, Trooper and cats, Cloe and Zoe.At Jim’s request, services will be private for the family. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made toPine Tree Camp,114 Pine Tree Camp Road,Rome, ME 04963

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