Jimmy Paul Smith

New Iberia - Jimmy Paul Smith, 71, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by loved ones, on Wednesday, August 29, 2018. Jimmy never wanted a funeral, therefore there will be a Celebration of Life gathering at his home on Saturday, September 8, 2018 starting at 10:00 am. Please BYOB. A native of St. Martinville and a longtime resident of New Iberia, Jimmy Paul Smith was born on April 7, 1947 to the late Hanson Joseph Smith and Cecile Marie Robicheaux Smith. He served in the Army National Guard from 1967-1973, where he was an M-16 Rifle Expert, and was a retired Diesel Mechanics Instructor at Teche Area Vo Tech. Jimmy enjoyed traveling, and was an avid horseman. Among other things, he trained horses and mules, rode cutting horses, did Team Sorting, and competed in the Houston Livestock Shows, where he won competitions with his mules. Jimmy was friend to all; he lent a hand to anyone in need. He lived a very full life, and lived it his way. He's now enjoying a cold beer with his old friend, Brooks. Jimmy is survived by a son, Brad James Smith (Nicole) of New Iberia; brother, Mickey Smith of Catahoula; sister, Edna Dale Smith Buky (James) of New Orleans; grandchild, Nia Claire Smith; step-grandaughter, Shani Comeaux (Jacob); stepchildren, Dana Legnon, Brian Legnon, and Trudy Legnon Landry; a friend who was like a daughter, Bethany Edler; nieces, Danielle Baham, Claudette Poteet, and Jamie Dale Paul; and his mules, Alabama and Doc. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a niece, Monique Deshotels; a step daughter, Tammy Legnon; and his cutting horse, Miss Jessie. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Jimmy's caregivers, Marcus and Lisa Boudreaux, who took excellent care of him. Your kindness will not be forgotten. Pellerin Funeral Home, 502 Jefferson Terrace Blvd., New Iberia, LA 70560, (337-365-3331) is in charge of arrangements