James Edward Smith Jr.

James Edward Smith, Junior passed away on August 21, 2025, at the young age of 78. He was a native of Inman and Spartanburg counties and a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was not only generous in life, but also in death as an organ donor. James was a beautiful soul that would help anyone and his radiant smile lit up any room he entered. He enjoyed dancing, travel, woodworking, and fishing. His main hobby was being an avid collector of fruit jars and antiques. He lived life to its fullest and especially loved spending time with his wife daily, family, friends, and his two furry friends, Fancy and Gator.

James is survived by his loving wife, Tonya E. Smith; daughter, Wendy Smith; granddaughter, Courtney Chipps and husband, Josh Chipps; also other extended family of Smith and Dover. But his Aunt Calantha M. Holcombe (Kitty), cousin, Cindy Hammond and husband Tim Hammond were his favorite trio. They made him laugh out loud and he loved them dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, James E. Smith, of Georgia; mother, Margaret Louise Dover, of South Carolina; and brother, Wayne C. Smith, of Inman.

James graduated from Chapman High School and decided to join the military, he chose the U.S. Navy. Immediately he was shipped out to Vietnam from San Diego and after 22 years and five months of service, James returned home in May of 1985. In honor of his service, James received 11 medals, retired with honors, had memories of serving on 7 U.S.N. ships and multiple medical issues. In his retirement, he went to school to become an auctioneer, worked at Ingles food stores, and enjoyed other small jobs of interest. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, American Legion and several other organizations. James also volunteered his time to fellow veterans in obtaining VA benefits, placement and disability assistance.

A memorial service will be held in his honor at 3 PM, Friday, August 29, 2025, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery located at 4170 Percival Rd in Columbia, South Carolina. All family and friends are encouraged to attend in honor of his service and to support his family.

Our love for you will continue on in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to POW/MIA (https://www.pow-miafamilies.org/donation).