Leon James ‘Jim’ Smith

LEON SMITH

Leon James “Jim” Smith, 84, of Millheim, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Oct. 16, 2025.

He was born in Bellefonte, Pa., to Sara (Brandt) Smith and Jack Smith. Jim graduated from Penns Valley High School in 1958. After high school, he married Susan (Hartle) Smith, and together they shared over 60 years of marriage and raised two children, James and Jeanne.

Jim began his career as a mechanic at Square Deal Garage in Millheim. He later worked for Dunkle & Grieb, which became Valley Ag & Turf, as a farm equipment salesman. For around 40 years, he was also known throughout the area as “Jim Smith the Auctioneer,” running an auctioneering business alongside his family. During the winter months, he could often be found around town as one of Santa’s helpers, joyfully playing the part of Santa in the Valley.

He was a dedicated member of the Millheim Lions Club, the Millheim Fire Company and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church for over 50 years. He was most recently a member of Penns Valley Calvary Church in Millheim. Jim was a man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures-casting a line on a quiet morning, hunting in the woods and spending time surrounded by family. One of his greatest prides was his camp in Poe Valley, a place filled with laughter, memories and love over the years.

He is survived at home by his loving wife, Susie; his son, James Smith (Kim), of Centre Hall, Pa.; and his daughter, Jeanne Smith, of Boalsburg, Pa. He is also survived by his sister, Peg Caldwell (William), of Milroy, Pa., and sister-in-law, Tish Smith, of Centre Hall, Pa. He leaves behind cherished grandchildren, Reba Gates (Ryan) of Lamar, Pa., and Corby Smith and Blake Simons, of Orlando, Fla., as well as his great-grandchild, Rhett Gates, who will carry his spirit forward.

Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Smith.

He will be remembered for his steady kindness, his love of the outdoors and the way he made everyone feel at home wherever he was.

A celebration of his life will be held on Nov. 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Calvary Penns Valley Church at 117 Penn Street in Millheim. Friends will be received from 10 a.m. until the service starts. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to the Millheim Fire Company, POB 656, Millheim, PA 16854 or to Calvary Penns Valley Church, POB 425, Millheim, PA 16854. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stevenrnefffuneralhome.com.