James Charles Smith was born on Sept. 16, 1952, in Crockett, to William Hayward Smith and Janie (Thornton) Smith. He passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Riverside, at the age of 72.
James grew up in Trinity and attended both Lovelady and Trinity school systems. He went on to work in the marine industry and proudly retired as a towboat engineer, a career that suited his hardworking nature and love of being near the water.
James had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He loved to hunt and fish and enjoyed spending time mowing his yard or working on his tractor. In his leisure time, he found joy in simply relaxing with a cold beer in hand.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Hayward Smith; brothers, Lonnie Earl Smith, William Avon Smith, and Robert Lewis Smith; and his stepdaughter, Amber Pillows.
James is survived by his devoted wife of 29 years, Stephanie Ammons; his children, son James Cody Smith and daughter Janie Smith; his mother, Janie Smith Thornton; sister, Heavenly Jane; brothers, Donald Richard Smith and J.A. Smith; and grandchildren, Charlie Rose, Madison Grace, Harlyn Rae, Sydney Pillows, and Jameson Colt. He is also survived by his beloved aunt, Nelda Lightfoot, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service to celebrate James’s life will be held by the family at a later date.
