Mr. James Rayburn Smith

A graveside service will be held at Mt. Lebanon Church on Saturday May 23, 2026, at 11:00 am for friends and family.

Ricky Smith and Josh Redden will officiate.

Mr. Smith was a father and grandfather. He shared 67 years of marriage with his late wife, Eva Janet Smith. He was a generational farmer and established Rayburn Smith Farms. He loved to fish and eat fish. His passion was working on farm equipment and old Ford trucks.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Eva Janet Smith, his parents Hoyt and Gladys Smith, his siblings, Joe Wilburn Smith and Gail Smith, and his granddaughter Shaunda Marie Smith.

He leaves behind his sons, Jeffery Wayne Smith (Theresa), and Phillip Darrell Smith (Melinda) of Steele; chosen son, Steve Alexander: grandchildren Shree Miller (Eric), Brian Alexander (Kim). and Stephanie Smith; great grandchildren, Carter Pardue, Blaid Williamson, Mia Miller, Ivan Payne, Brady Alexander and Lynlee Miller; brothers Ricky Smith (Wanda) and Johnny Smith; chosen brothers Wayne Finley, Ricky Finley (Debbie).

The following will serve as pallbearers: Eric Miller, Brian Alexander, Carter Pardue, Blaid Williamson, Ivan Payne, and Brady Alexander.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the nurses and doctors who cared for Mr. Smith and a special thank you to Blaid Williamson, Ellen Jenkins, Amy Vaughn, and Brandi Payne for always being there, showing love and compassion, as well as helping his family and being a friend to Mr. Smith.

A special thank you to Phillip "Red" Mulkey for being his best friend and singing buddy.

Morgan Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.