Honoring Dr. Jim Smith: A Life of Service, Steadfast Generosity, and Saturday Nights at the USO

For many at the USO Sea-Tac Center, Saturday nights won’t feel quite the same.

Dr. James “Jim” B. Smith, M.D., a cherished member of the USO family, passed away on November 7, 2025, at the age of 93. Though his life included extraordinary chapters — distinguished military service, a decades-long medical career, academic contributions, and adventures that kept him active well into his 80s and 90s — it was his unwavering kindness and quiet dedication that left the deepest mark on those who knew him at the center. Jim served 13 years in the U.S. Army, including time at Fort Carson and a year in Vietnam as Hospital Commander of the 45th Surgical Hospital, 44th Medical Brigade. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel with numerous honors, including the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and a Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Jim and his family then moved to Mercer Island where he began a 33-year civilian orthopedic career in Seattle. Jim established a reputation as an accomplished surgeon, a mentor, and a teacher. After retirement, he stayed deeply engaged — translating Greek for fun, skiing, golfing, windsurfing, training dogs, riding his tractor, and (as every friend and family member can attest) correcting grammar with unmatched enthusiasm. But at 87 years old, Jim added something new to his life: volunteering with the USO.

Nearly every Saturday night, long after most people his age had settled into quieter routines, Jim made the drive — more than an hour each way — to the USO Sea-Tac Airport Center for the midnight shift. What began as an act of service quickly became one of the greatest joys of his week. He treasured chatting with service members, helping travelers, and being part of the camaraderie that comes alive after dark at the center. His daughter Lisa shared that he’d call her after shifts with full reports: how busy the night had been, which volunteers he worked alongside, what equipment needed attention, and even which new signs had been put up around the building — always delivered with his signature humor.

He became a fixture of the center: reliable, sharp-witted, deeply kind. He was the volunteer you could always count on. Jim continued serving until just two weeks before he passed away. To the center staff and volunteers, his presence was a gift: a reminder that service knows no age, that community can form at any hour, and that showing up wholeheartedly can change a place for the better.

Here at the USO Sea-Tac Center, his legacy lives on — in the countless nights he gave, the conversations he started, and the steady, gracious service that defined his time with us. We are deeply grateful to have been part of his story.