James Lee Smith
James Lee Smith, 76, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025. He grew up in Bassett, VA, where he became an Eagle Scout and graduated from Bassett High School in 1967. After high school, James enrolled in college before joining the Air Force with his dear friend.
From March 1969 to January 1973, James served as an Air Force aircraft mechanic, working on pneudraulic systems, and served a tour in Thailand supporting the Vietnam War. Upon returning home to Bassett, he worked his way up at Charles White’s Chevy Land, eventually managing the Body Shop. Customers, coworkers, and vendors alike loved working with James, and he built lifelong friendships throughout his career. Known for his honesty, kindness, and generosity, James took pride in helping others and never met a stranger - his sincere smile made sure of that.
That same sincere smile often carried an extra twinkle when he started joking. Like his father Cecil, James was a magnet for good people and good times. He was also known for his love of nice cars, especially his 1968 yellow Corvette which played a role in his pursuit of Arlene. After nearly ten years of persistence, James and Arlene married in 1981. From then on, they were inseparable, rarely spending a day apart.
Family was the heart of James’ life. He never missed his daughter’s events, always stood by his wife, and cherished sharing a cold drink with his dad in the garage after work. He was a devoted brother to his sisters, and he poured his love and laughter into every role he held: husband, father, brother, uncle, grandpa, and friend.
James leaves behind a legacy that includes the best peach ice cream, the most genuine smile, epic fatherhood, and a reputation as a fun uncle, loving grandpa, and loyal friend. He enjoyed fishing with buddies, winning Turkey Shoots, and filling every gathering with laughter and lightheartedness. For James, life was never meant to be taken too seriously; it was meant to be enjoyed with laughter!
He is survived by his daughter, Amy Smith Tarbox (Travis), and granddaughter, Emma James Tarbox; his sister, Helen Carter (Terry); his sisters- and brothers-in-law, Janet Jones, Sherman Campbell, and Rocky Nelson (Martha); and step-siblings, Michael Edmonds (Tiffany), Duane Edmonds, and Michelle Edmonds. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Kameron Carter (Sara), Blake Carter (Sheridan), Haley Light (Corey), Bess Kellerman (Mike), Rob Nelson, Sharon Campbell Grim (Brian), Wesley Campbell (Terry), Tonya Jones (Michael), and Rhonda West (Brett).
James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Arlene Smith; his parents, James Cecil Smith (Karen) and Berta Hawkes Joyce (Murvin); and his sister, Barbara Nelson.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 4, at 10:00 AM at Norris Funeral Home in Martinsville, VA, followed by a service at 11:00 AM and burial at Roselawn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice (to Support SECU Hospice Home Operations in Yadkinville).
Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory – Martinsville is serving the Smith family. Online condolences can be made at www.NorrisFuneral.com.
