SMYRNA - Jimmie A. Dykes, of Smyrna, passed away peacefully at home in the presence of his wife, LaVerne on Friday, Nov. 4, 2011. He was 81. Mr. Dykes was born April 20, 1930, in Elizabethton, Tenn., the son of the late Earl and Cleat Dykes. Jimmie graduated in 1948 from Happy Valley High School in Elizabethton. He went on to enlist in the United States Air Force and retired with honors as a Master Sergeant after 22 and ½ years of service to his country. Jimmie was an active member of Asbury United Methodist Church in Smyrna. He was a Life Member of the VFW Post 6506 of Rosedale, Md., and a Life Member of the Air Force Sergeants Association of Temple Hills, Md. Mr. Dykes was a world traveler, who made many friends throughout the years in many different places. He loved to work with his hands and enjoyed wood carving, as well as reading. He was very proud of his Cherokee Indian Heritage. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers; and two sisters. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, LaVerne; a daughter, Mary Roxann Carstensen of Haverhill, Mass.; grandchildren, Cierra Carin Carstensen and Deane Dykes Carstensen, both of Haverhill; two brothers, Dana and Wayne; a sister, Frances; and many nieces and nephews, including his favorite niece, Sharron and her husband Bill. A viewing will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011, from 3 to 5 p.m., and again from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main St., Smyrna. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011, at 11 a.m. in Asbury United Methodist Church, located at 20-24 W. Mt. Vernon St., Smyrna. Burial will be held in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear, immediately following the funeral services. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Asbury United Methodist Church, Food Pantry, 20-24 W. Mt. Vernon St., Smyrna. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.