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Council adopts memorial resolution for local radio personality James Joseph Smith
Summary
The Lima City Council adopted Resolution 626 to express condolences to the family of James Joseph Smith (known on air as Jim Edwards/Diesel/Big Buddha) and recognized his role promoting local music and mentoring artists.
Lima City Council adopted Resolution 626 on first reading to memorialize James Joseph Smith, who the resolution says passed away on Feb. 21, 2026, and who used his radio platform to promote local musicians and mentor emerging artists. The resolution names Smith’s involvement with the Greater Allen County Blues Society and notes his long-standing role in the community’s music scene.
Councilors who knew Smith offered personal remembrances before the vote. “It’s probably been 25 years that I knew Big Jim,” Councilor Nieper said, calling him a fixture of the local music scene. The council then approved the resolution on its first reading and invited family forward as part of the ceremonial recognition.
