James William Smith Jr., age 75, of Hayes, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. He was born on May 20, 1950 to the late James and Alice Estelle Kellum Smith. He was a hardworking man who dedicated over 30 years to his career as a truck driver. James took great pride in his work–especially his yard. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brother, Harold D. Smith, and sister, Alice M. Hall. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Debra L. Smith; his brothers, Roy Jean Smith and Howard Smith; and his sister, Diane Coates; his children, Michael Smith, Michelle Smith, Jason Smith (Savannah), Virginia Wauhop (David), Sharon Tooley (David); grandchildren James Michael Smith, Jr., Adrian Smith (Becca), Destiny Sawyer, Jay Sawyer, Natalie Smith, Stephanie Smith, Jason Wyatt, Gabriel David Wauhop, Bradley David Tooley, and great-grandchildren Jayden Smith and Layla Smith.

Services are private and under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home.