James "Bob" Smith

James Walter Smith, whom we all affectionately know as “Bob Smith,” was born in Hancock County,Sparta, Georgia, where he blessed his parents as their first baby boy of the late Walter Smith and Lizzie Julia Johnson Smith. James Walter Smith’s sunrise was August 26, 1942, and his rest was taken January 29, 2023. He became aChristian at a very early age joining Bethlehem Baptist Church of Sparta, Georgia. He became a member of the House of God, House of Prayer for All Nations, Inc., Church where he served and worshipped through his sunset.

He was united in matrimony to Berniece J. Smith of Hampton, Georgia. He was a devoted father and husband. He made sure that his family was given the best he could provide for them. This was his proudest accomplishment. He ALWAYS PUT HIS FAMILY FIRST. James (Bob) was a soul that did all things on his terms. He was caring, passionate about his beliefs, loved those who loved him back, friendly, and loved sharing his life’s travel and work to all those who knew him. He was generous and caring to his family and friends. Although he may not have had much, he was willing to give his last to help a friend. He radiated all the rooms he entered into with his infectious smile, silver strands, and perfect brown skin. James (Bob) loved NASCAR, tinkering on cars, antique shopping, dogs, historic and muscle cars, fishing, pancakes, and gardening. He had an amazing memory of his life and told entertaining stories, sometimes with a hint of exaggeration. Even in his last few days, he told stories from throughout his life, and he had a way to pull you into every one!

James (Bob) was a hard worker and often worked more than one job to ensure his family was never left without a thing. He served more than 20 years with the Hancock County Board of Commissioners in Sparta, GA, where he served the community in a variety of positions until his medically-forced retirement in 1997.

James (Bob) was preceded in death by his mother, Lizzie Julia Johnson-Smith; father, Walter Smith; sisters, Bettye Mitchell and Idella Walton (Patsy); only baby brother, Chester Smith; nephew, Jeffrey Farmer, and his daughter, Elissa B. Darden.

He leaves to cherish his fond memories: his children, daughter, Letrissa B. Smith-Frieson of Atlanta, GA, and son, Jameyan B. Smith of Stockbridge, GA; grandchildren, Ja’Nisha B. Willis of Griffin, GA; great-granddaughter, Ce’Drece Willis; three nephews, Wyatt Trent Smith of California, Vance Walton of Virginia, and Quincy Smith of Sparta; one niece, Toni Mitchell of Covington; one sister-in-law, Martha Smith; lifetime devoted friend, Ruby Ingram; his favorite, Guy-George Everett; and a tribe of amazing humans who made his life WHOLE!

Services entrusted to Dawson’s Mortuary ~98 Hopgood St. Warrenton, GA

www.dawsonsmortuary.com

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