James "Slick" Smith

Born on June 28, 1932, James was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area and a man deeply rooted in his community. He was the beloved son of the late Melvin Smith, Sr., and Leona V. Donaldson Smith. He was also preceded in death by his devoted wife of 68 years, Sue Smith; his son, Randall Smith; his brothers, Melvin and Don Smith; and his brothers-in-law, Jerry Miller and Teddy Smith.

James lived a life marked by dedication, service, and hard work. He retired from Combustion Engineering after 32 years, where he worked as a skilled boilermaker and later as a carpenter. Never one to slow down, he went on to work as a realtor, continuing to serve others in his community. In addition, James proudly served his country in the Navy Seabees Reserves for 34½ years, retiring with the rank of Chief. He was a member of NMCB 24 and concluded his distinguished service with NMCB 13.

James was a longtime member of St. James Methodist Church.

He leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory: his daughter, Susan (Frank) LeQuire; grandsons, Justin (Jessica) Smith and Matt (Angel) LeQuire; and great-grandchildren, Ansley and Julian Smith. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Phyllis Miller, Marylynn “Sis” Smith, and Sandy (Paul) Weeks, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will remember him fondly.

A celebration of James’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, with Pastor Fred Layne officiating. Interment will follow at Chattanooga Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com

Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.