James Butler Smith left this earthly world on January 15, 2021 to be with his Lord. James was born on March 7, 1933 in Union County, NC and was the eldest of six children born to James Samuel Smith and Carrie Evelyn Baucom. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1953 until his honorable discharge in 1955. James was retired from Eastern Electric in Charlotte, where he worked for 42 years.
James married the love of his life, Sadie Lucille Hough on January 30, 1954 and together they made a home and raised a family. A humble man who loved God and made friends easily, he held many varied positions in the churches where he served throughout his life. He loved and enjoyed his family, and they were involved with many of his pastimes. Camping was just one of those, and his specialty was popcorn and homemade ice cream for all. Spoiling his ponies, breakfast with his brothers and sister, tractors and gardening – they were all part of his life. And PawPaw slicing up an apple off a backyard tree for his grandkids was a perfect fit for his Sunday afternoon.
Although in the last few years dementia has stolen many of the joys from his life, James still seemed to enjoy people and manage a “thank you” for those who helped him. The family would like to thank all those who helped care for him in the last years of his life.
James was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Donald and Charles. He also leaves behind his brothers Jerry and Billy Smith, and sister Peggy Sharpe.
James is survived by his wife of nearly 67 years, Sadie; son Michael and wife Betsy, daughter Robin Mullis and husband Robert, daughter Janice Walters and husband Bryon, son Roger and wife Shari; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Mount Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery.
Condolences may be offered online at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.
