Mr. James Smith Jr., 78, of Gray, passed away Thursday morning, December 4, 2025 at his home. He was the son of the late James Sr. and Betty Hammons Smith born September 28, 1947 at Hammonds, KY.
James was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church, attended the Eastside Church of God in Corbin and proudly belonged to the local 8411 Steelworkers of America union. He loved fishing, automotive restoration, and spending time with his church family, whose fellowship meant so much to him. James had a generous heart and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.
On December 30, 1965, he united in marriage with Wilma Sue Senters and to this union four children were born.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a beloved grandson, Joshua Daniel Harp.
Survivors include his loving wife of almost 60 years, Wilma Sue Smith of Gray; children, Ginger Lynette Harp and husband, Richard Wayne, of Corbin, Christopher Brent Smith and wife, Tammy S., of Corbin, Lisa Marie Rumsey and husband, John David Rumsey Jr., of Euharlee, GA and Jill Denise DeBorde and husband, Joshua M., of Barbourville; cherished grandchildren, Rachel Lauren Harp, Christopher Zackary Smith, Allison Grace Suiter, Whitney Finley, Ansley Rumsey, Alexis Rhae Bingham and Olan Kenneth Brown; great-grandchildren, Ella Smith, Maddie Smith, Ollie Suiter, Hudson Suiter, Bodie Suiter, Hayden Finley, Paisley Finley, Kinsley Finley and Callie June Bingham; special friends, Jamie Cooke and Randy Sawyers; among other loved ones and dear friends.
His funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Monday, December 8 at 1 P.M. with Richard Harp officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Barbourville Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be Jamie Cooke, Randy Sawyers, Zackary Smith, Joshua DeBorde, Richard Harp and John David Rumsey Jr.
Honorary bearers are Olan Brown and Rev. Ryan Wells.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Monday after 12 Noon until the funeral hour.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to Ronald McDonald House Charities at https://ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org/donate
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
