James R Smith, Jr 84, was born on February 11, 1941, in Richmond, Virginia, to Isabella Smith Abernathy and Aurther McClennan. He departed this life on January 19, 2026.

He was preceded in death by ex-wife, Marian Smith; son, James Pierce; brother, Mervin "Bobby" Smith; sister, Carol Pearl Juette Hunter; and long-term partner, Pamela Powell.

James attended Armstrong High School and went into ministry as a pastor and lifelong member of Gethsemane Holiness Church. He also worked as a construction foreman for many years until he started his employment with the Richmond Times Dispatch as a newspaper carrier, where he retired in 2006.

He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his children and grandchildren and they loved him dearly. He was happiest sitting on his porch listening to gospel music, hosting friends and family and giving life advice to anyone that would listen.

He was a jack-of-all-trades and can fix and build anything with his bare hands.

He leaves to cherish his children, Jameelah Smith, James Smith Jr. and Anthony Pierce; 18 devoted grandchildren,