James William Smith, affectionately known as “Smitty” by family and friends, passed away peacefully at his home on July 19, 2025, at the age of 91. Born June 27, 1934, in Cherokee County, Alabama, to Annie Ruth and Ike Smith, Smitty experienced the loss of his father at a young age. At just ten years of age, he began helping support his family, displaying a strong work ethic and compassion that defined his life.
At 17, Smitty enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for 26 years before retiring at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi. Following his military career, he devoted over two decades to renovating and managing hotels across the South-including locations in Mississippi, Baton Rouge (LA), Raleigh (NC), Murfreesboro (TN), Helena (AR),
Memphis (TN), and finally Sheffield (AL), where he and his beloved wife Fran settled into retirement.
Smitty loved bowling and was known for his cheerful smile and kind spirit. His warmth touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed. He was preceded in death by his parents, Annie Ruth and Ike Smith; sisters Evelynn and Doris; and brother Clyde.
Smitty is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Fran Smith of Sheffield, AL; his children: Pamela of Orlando, FL; Kenneth of Central Texas; Dawn of Sheffield, AL; Debbie and Tony (twins) of Birmingham, AL; and Clinton of Sheffield, AL. He also leaves behind grandchildren: Blue, Carla, Kenny III, Mia, Christopher, Shelby, Trevor, and another Mia of Sheffield, AL; as well as four great-grandchildren: Arianna, Dylan, Kenny VI, and Alaiya.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
