SMITH, JR., Clarence James (C.J.)

West Valley View, Avondale, AZ Friday, November 25, 2011 Clarence James "C.J." Smith Jr., 85, of Phoenix died Nov. 19, 2011. He had operated the C.J.S. Film Studios in Avondale for 25 years. Mr. Smith was born Aug. 27, 1926, in Phoenix to Thelma B. and Clarence James Sr. He attended Kenilworth Elementary School, Phoenix Union High School, Phoenix College and graduated from Vanderbilt University. During World War II, he served as a corpsman in the Navy. He was a Mason for more than 60 years with Arizona Lodge No. 2, was a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, headed all three of the York Rite bodies, served as D.D.G.M. and was a founding master of Pioneer Lodge No. 82. He was also involved with the S.M.O.T.J. Kiwanis Club, Jaycees and Westerners. He helped found the Fiesta Bowl Parade, participated in the Tournament of Roses Parade and was a board member of the Arizona Historical Society and the Phoenix College Alumni Association Half Century Club. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara Jo; two daughters, Terri Langford and Jamie Cantara; and one son, Christopher "C.J." Services were held this week. Memorials may be sent to the Arizona Masonic Foundation for Children or the Arizona Humane Society.