James Robert Goldsmith

James Robert Goldsmith 73, of Hamilton, IL passed away Thursday, November 5, 2026 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics in Iowa City, IA.

He was born October 28, 1953 in Pontiac, IL the son of Joseph and Alma Lamb Goldsmith.

He was married for forty-five years to Wanda Root in Orange, TX. She survives.

He spent many years as an over-the-road truck driver and also worked as a prison guard. He was employed by Door & Sash and later served as a foreman in the salt mines.

James had a true passion for carpentry and woodworking. He especially enjoyed making cabinets and created a beautiful mantel shelf for his wife. Some of his most cherished projects were the special wooden treasures he made for his grandchildren, including little chairs and rocking horses. A true jack of all trades, James was always willing to take on a project.

Besides his wife, James is survived by his two sons, Shawn Goldsmith of Phoenix, AZ and Garrett Whitt of Hamilton, IL; one daughter, Crystal Whitt of Keokuk; ten grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one sister, Deena (James) Reynolds of Streator, IL; one brother, Tom Goldsmith of South Carolina; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents; two brothers, Doug and Ted; and his daughter, Heather Hogan.

There will be no visitation or services.