Deacon James Smith was born on January 20, 1942, in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, to the parentage of Arthur and Jadie Smith. He was the fifth of twelve children and an energetic, gregarious child. Growing up in such a large household, it would have been easy to get lost among the crowd, but James made himself heard and known—a trait that served him well throughout his life. He always felt as though he was in charge.

James attended Booker T. Washington High School, graduating in 1960. Upon graduation, he joined the Armed Forces, serving honorably from 1961 to 1965. After returning home, he settled in Dallas, Texas, where he met and married the love of his life, Hattie Aldridge. They shared 59 beautiful years of marriage until her passing. From this union, two daughters were born, Resha and Ilona.

While James deeply loved his daughters, he adored each of his grandchildren, spoiling them with the special kind of love only a grandfather could give—both stern and tender. Nothing was ever a chore when it came to his grandchildren. Early mornings often found him chauffeuring them to school, teaching them how to live and survive, and remaining attentive to their every need. Nothing was ever too much for the children he loved so dearly. To them, he will forever be remembered as "Paw-paw."

James became a devoted member and deacon of Steven Temple Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Robert Asberry and later served faithfully under Pastor Tommy Coleman until God called him from labor to reward. As any member of Steven Temple will attest, James was involved in nearly every aspect of church life. If he saw a need, he did his best to fill it. He served wherever the pastor appointed him—whether as a deacon, teacher, singer, caretaker, confidant, or encourager. Whatever and wherever he was needed, he willingly served. He truly loved his church and his church family.

James leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Resha Aldridge and Ilona Aldridge; his grandchildren, Ietierre Hamilton, Sasika Bethany, Iekel Hamilton, and Sentorie Bethany; 14 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Superintendent Dr. Tommy Smith, John (Sylvia) Smith, and Bobby Smith; his sisters, Nona Rundles and Cheryl Smith; his sisters-in-law, Lillie Smith (Childress, Texas), Annie Smith (Saginaw, Michigan), and Lula Lowe (Dallas, Texas); along with a host of nieces, nephews, and his beloved Steven Temple Church family.