James Nolan Smyrl

James Nolan Smyrl - A Loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather

James Nolan Smyrl, known to friends and family as “Pop” or “Doc”, passed away on September 4, 2023, at the age of 69 in Lufkin, Texas. James was born on March 3, 1954, in his hometown of Lufkin to Nolan B. Smyrl and Loretta Bridges.

James had a fulfilling life that was marked by love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. On August 12, 1972, he married the love of his life, Donna Smyrl, and they celebrated 51 remarkable years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful family and created a loving home for not only their children but for anyone who needed a place to stay.  James’ commitment, love and respect for his wife was a major part of who he was as a man.  Every day he would make her morning coffee, hold her hand throughout the day, or simply ask if she was okay or needed anything.

James was a graduate of Lufkin High School and had a successful, 31 year career as a paper maker at the Lufkin paper mill.  He then worked in the nuclear industry where he travelled across the country, meeting new people and forging lasting connections. He was well respected by his colleagues and always found satisfaction in his work.

Outside of work, James had a number of hobbies and interests that brought him immense joy. He loved fishing, playing golf, watching the Houston Astros, playing 42 (2 marks blind!), singing with his sons, and working on his beloved jeep, which was a true labor of love. Above all, he adored his grandchildren and spent countless hours giving them his time, love, and support.

James was known for his quick wit, and his ability to make everyone around him burst into laughter.  Friends and family are left with an overwhelming number of happy memories and will continue to use some of his more well-known sayings, “but, did you die?”, “seven”, and “#5”.  James lived every day making everyone smile, putting others first and showing a level of compassion, kindness, and generosity that we should all aspire to.  The world will be dimmer without him in it.

James is survived by his loving spouse, Donna (Gandy) Smyrl, his children, Jeremy and Gina Smyrl, Warren Smyrl, Jaimee and Matt Varner, and his adored grandchildren, Parker (23), Payne (21), Elizabeth (20), Ellasyn (15), Addison (15), Owen (12), Maddyx (8), Palmer (6). He is also survived by his mother, Loretta (Davis) Bridges, and his siblings, Karen White, Sherry and Danny Massey, Nancy and Kerry Oldham, and Patsy and Michael Rayborn. Additional family and friends who had a special place in James’ heart include Danita Gandy, Mike and Vickie Gandy, Matt Gandy, Jay and Lauren Smith, George and Donna Mancil, and Gary Davis.

James was preceded in death by his father, Nolan B. Smyrl, sister, Tina Bridges, grandmother, Luzelle Dominy, and his self-proclaimed adopted parents, Donald and Elaine Gandy.

A Celebration of Life for James Nolan Smyrl will be held Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 58J Café, located at 118 S. First Street, Lufkin, Texas.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Avery Grace Memorial at https://www.agkmemorial.com/.  If sending flowers, please send to Jaimee Varner, 3 Oakmont Court, Lufkin, Texas 75901.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.