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SMITH -- James E. Smith (Jimmy), born in 1947, died peacefully in Albuquerque on May 24, 2005 after years of courageously living with AIDS and fighting cancer in the last several months. He is survived by his life partner of thirty years, David Mario of Albuquerque; his mother, Helen Smith and sister, Nancy Dudley Smith, both of Indiana; as well as numerous other relatives and many friends. Jimmy had a clear vision of his role as an activist on behalf of people living with HIV as well as disabled persons and their families. Among his immeasurable contributions to these communities are: Founding board member of New Mexico AIDS Services, member of the board of the National Association of People Living With AIDS, lobbying the United States Congress on behalf of people with disabilities, street outreach and needle-exchange programs in Albuquerque, and public speaking on the HIV crisis. Some years ago Jimmy and other HIV positive activists collected funds to support the work of Mother Theresa; they were able to deliver these donations in person when she visited Gallup, which was a most significant event in Jimmy's life. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. In keeping with Jimmy's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no memorial service. Those who to celebrate his life with a gift may send a donation to: Presbyterian Hospice, 8100 Constitution Place NE, Suite 400, Albuquerque, NM 87110.
        Published on: Wed June 01, 2005