Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : James Donald Smith Jr., known as “Don”, passed away on October 1 at the age of 88 in Wrightsville Beach, N.C. Born in Atlanta in 1936, Smith graduated from the University of Georgia in 1958 and began his career in the furniture industry as a buyer for Rich’s Department Store.
His journey in the furniture industry took him through various companies, eventually leading him to co-found Hickorycraft Inc. with his wife Judy in 1977. The upholstery manufacturer served a national customer base and was later sold to Masco Corp. in 1987. Smith then took on a leadership role in Masco Corp’s Home Furnishings Group’s upholstery operations, collaborating with artist Bob Timberlake to create The World of Bob Timberlake.
In retirement, Smith dedicated his time to organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the Grandfather Home for Children. He was also actively involved in the Rotary Club and his local Presbyterian Church. Smith is survived by his wife Margie, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
A service to honor his life will be held on Wednesday, October 16, at Little Chapel on the Boardwalk in Wrightsville Beach, N.C. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Habitat for Humanity in memory of Smith.
James Donald Smith Jr. leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and service to his community. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Longtime furniture executive, Don Smith, dies at 88
Who was James Donald Smith Jr.?
James Donald Smith Jr., known as “Don,” passed away on October 1 at the age of 88. He was born on April 6, 1936, in Atlanta, to James and Lorena Smith. After graduating from the University of Georgia in 1958, he began his career in the furniture industry as a buyer for Rich’s Department Store.
What was his role in the furniture industry?
Smith held successive positions with Drexel Heritage, Sherrill, and Hickory Tavern furniture companies, eventually leading him to Hickory, North Carolina. In 1977, he and his wife, Judy, founded Hickorycraft Inc., an upholstery manufacturer that served a national customer base of department stores and other large retailers.
What were his contributions to the industry?
In 1987, Smith sold Hickorycraft Inc. to Masco Corp. and assumed leadership of its Home Furnishings Group’s upholstery operations. During his time there, he collaborated with artist Bob Timberlake and other Masco-owned companies to create The World of Bob Timberlake. Smith also served as the president of the American Furniture Manufacturers Association.
How did he spend his retirement?
After retiring, Smith dedicated his time to various organizations, including Habitat for Humanity and the Grandfather Home for Children. He was a lifelong Rotarian and an active member of the Presbyterian Church.
What was his family background?
Smith was predeceased by his parents, his wife Judy, and his son, Jay. He is survived by his wife Margie, a son and daughter, two stepdaughters, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Where and when is the service planned?
A service to honor James Donald Smith Jr. is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, at the Little Chapel on the Boardwalk in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. The family has requested that donations be made to Habitat for Humanity in lieu of flowers.
Sources: furnituretoday.com
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