James "JO" Odell Smith

James was born January 5, 1944, in Forsyth County, a son to the late, Paul Decoe Smith and the late Nina Elizabeth Weavil Smith. He was a proud new member of Shiloh United Methodist Church. A graduate of Mineral Springs High School and served in the US Army as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne division. He was a long-haul truck driver for L.C. Transportation for 24 plus years of service and was recently employed with KKCarriers. JO was an avid Duke basketball fan, enjoyed working in his yard and growing his banana trees, and due to the long driving enjoyed staying at home with his family. James took pleasure in making people laugh with his witty personality and his talent as a great storyteller. He was a loving, dedicated, honest and humble man. He loved his wife, his best friend to the end and made sure she was always taken care of.

He is survived by his wife Alva Hartley Smith of the home; a son, Monte Smith of Winston-Salem, and his children, Yusif and Jade Smith; daughter, Jennifer Lopp and husband, Chuck of Glendale, AZ; one brother, Decoe Smith and wife, Annette of Walkertown; two sisters, June Branon and husband, Richard of Winston-Salem and Ann Vance of King; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 PM, Wednesday, February 25th at Frank Vogler and Sons Funeral Home, 2951 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem. The funeral service will be held 2 PM, Thursday, February 26th in the Chapel at the funeral home with Fred Moretz officiating. Burial will follow at Forsyth Memorial Park.

The family would like to offer a sincere thank you to the care takers of Hospice of Winston-Salem for the love, care, support given to JO during his battle.

Flowers are welcome and memorial contributions may be made to Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27106.