James Lister Smith, the younger son of Agnes and James C. Smith of Kirklands, just to the west of Aberuthven, perished on 15 August 1944 when the aircraft he was a passenger in crashed. Three others on board the flight making its way to a conference also died.

James had attended Auchterarder School before going on to Perth Academy where he was dux. From school he went up to Edinburgh University, graduating MA (Honours) in 1940.

On the outbreak of the Second World War, James joined the RAF. Due to his expertise, he was assigned to the Ministry of Aircraft Production.

The funeral took place at Auchterarder Parish Church. James’ coffin was borne to and from the hearse by a party of RAF personnel. A detachment of the Auchterarder and Aberuthven Home Guard preceded the funeral cortège to the burial at Aberuthven Cemetery.

Strathearn Herald, 26 August 1944

“PULPIT TRIBUTE"

“The following reference was made by Rev. Dr Gardner at the forenoon service in Auchterarder Barony Church on Sunday:—

“There is much sorrow in our country to-day by reason of loss of life through the war. To all who suffer we ever extend our deep sympathy, but when loss comes to our own friends the poignancy of the pain comes nearer home to us. To-day we extend our deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to Mr and Mrs Smith of Kirklands and to the members of their family at home and abroad in the loss of their son and brother."

“’Jim’ as he was known to us, had many fine qualities of heart and mind, and soul. He was always humble and kindly, and had a bright and cheerful temperament. To this he added great intellectual ability. He was a distinguished student in science and mathematics, and on joining the Royal Air Force he was called upon to use his specialised knowledge in the service of his country. In the R.A.F. he had reached the rank of Squadron Leader and while engaged on duty he met his death."

“He was a young man of great promise. It is part of the tragedy of war that it takes from us many promising young lives. Squadron Leader Smith was a man of fine character and a man of faith. When he was on leave he never failed to make his way to church. He remained humble before God, believing in Christ and interested in the Church. The last time I saw him he discussed religion, and the discussion was begun by himself."

“This afternoon we shall pay the last offices to our friend in the Kirkyard of Aberuthven. I know the thoughts of his many friends in many places will be with us. We grieve for the loss of another ypung life, but we rejoice in the communion of saints, and the life everlasting, and have faith in Christ and his promises."

“At the conclusion of the tribute the congregation stood for a short period in silence.”

James Lister Smith is also commemorated on the Auchterarder War Memorial.