James Thomas “Smitty” Smith, 82, formerly of Tuscumbia, Alabama, passed away Monday, Dec. 29, 2014, at his residence in Tacoma, Washington attended by his wife, Linda, and caregiver, Brenden Smith. He was born on Feb. 3, 1932, to the late Reverend James Louis and Sadie Pierce Smith. James confessed his faith in Christ and joined First Baptist Church, Tuscumbia, under the pastoral leadership of the late Reverend J.W. Cartwright. He was a 1951 granduate of Trenholm High School. A verteran, James served in the U.S. Army 101st Airborne Division, Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and was honorably discharged after 23 years of service.
He was predeceased by a sister, Julia S. Freeman.
Survivors include wife, Linda Katgur Smith, and a special caregiver, Brenden Smith, both of Tacoma, Washington; son, James Louis Smith (Mattie), Tuscumbia, Alabama; a daughter, Shaleena Knight (Adrian), Tacoma, Washington; three loving sister, Gloria S. Lewis, Sheffield, Alabama, Shirley S. Long, Tuscumbia, Alabama, and Niagara Ann Smith, Muscle Shoals, Alabama; brother-in-law, David Katguy, Tacoma, Washington; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other relatives; and friends.
A private service will be held today at 11 a.m. at Oakwood Cemetery, Tuscumbia, with the Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Braxton Sr. officiating.
