James "Jim" William Smotherman, age 53, of Springfield Missouri, died of a stroke at Mercy Hospital on January 30, 2017.

He was born at Burge Hospital in Springfield, Missouri on January 29, 1964, the only son of his late parents James "Bill" William and Flora Smotherman and younger brother of Catherine Smotherman-Patterson. Jim attended college at Missouri State University and earned his Bachelors degree in Business Management in 1990.

After sustaining a near-fatal heart attack in September 2000, Jim dedicated himself to not only living a healthier lifestyle, but also a career that allowed him to save lives and help others by becoming a Registered Nurse. Jim obtained his Associates in Nursing May 2007 and his Bachelors in May 2009 from Southwest Baptist University. Jim started with Mercy in 2005 and worked as a PCA for 2 years prior to working as an RN. Most recently, Jim accepted the role of Nurse Manager on 3A - a fiercely loyal, protective, hands-on leader for his team and always a strong patient advocate. Mercy Hospital will not be the same without Jim Smotherman rushing down the hallways with a smile on his face and a cup of black coffee or diet coke in hand.

Jim had a love for the outdoors and new adventures. He enjoyed kayaking, camping, hiking, bicycling and visiting new places. One of the biggest goals Jim set for himself was to run a marathon in each of the 50 states, which he accomplished in May 2016 in Alaska! The last race Jim ran was a relay race with many of his closest friends in Springfield held on January 1, 2017.   He was a classically trained pianist who loved history, particularly the Civil War.

He leaves his loving family: Catherine Patterson (beloved sister), Gary Patterson (Catherine's husband), Steven Hill (nephew) and Ellen Henderson (aunt). Jim leaves many close friends, too numerous to name, but include: Chad and Holly Schofield (best friends since high school), an extensive work family including several self-appointed "office wives", a tight-knit group of long-time running buddies and devoted girlfriend Shannon Wright.

Services will be held at Mercy Chapel on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at 2pm. Reception to follow in the McAuley conference rooms. Family has requested donations made to Mercy Kids or the American Heart Associate in lieu of flowers.

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

II Timothy 4:7