James Smith

James Oscar Smith, age 89, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2021, two weeks shy of his 90th birthday. He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar Ray Smith and Scottie Myrtle Thompson Smith, his devoted wife of 67 years, Betty Jean Grant Smith, daughter, Melanie Smith Allen, sister, Brenda (Leon) Knowles, and brother-in-law Terry Fowler. James is survived by sisters Helen (Bill) Pentecost, Carol (Terry) Fowler, Cathy (Jack) Owens; sons Steve (Rhoda Collins) Smith, Greg (Kathy) Smith and a daughter Jennifer Smith (Joe) Marksteiner; and his grandchildren, Tiffany Allen, Heather (Andrew) Burkot, Shawn (Theresa) Marksteiner, Nathan (Michelle) Marksteiner and Kalyn Marksteiner. James is also survived by numerous beloved nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters in-law, and friends.

James was a retired accountant, auditor, director of purchasing and quality management professional. He served in the United States Air Force. James and Betty were married during his military service in London, England on March 23, 1953. James earned a Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Business Administration from the University of Alabama in 1957 and a Master of Business Administration from Georgia State University in 1975. James loved his family and consistently engaged in service to his beloved Savior Jesus Christ and to His church. His life bore witness to his beliefs and set an example to be emulated. He would help anyone in need and served as a Chaplain to prisons and hospital patients on multiple occasions.

The family would like to express deep appreciation to the caregivers at The Lodge at Natchez Trace residence and Alive Hospice.

Visitation with the family will be on Saturday July 17, 2021 at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home, 9090 Highway 100, Nashville TN, 37221.  Notable is this date would be James’ 90th birthday. The family will have a private viewing 11-12, followed by a public viewing 12-2. A Celebration of Life service will follow in the Chapel on site at 2, and a graveside service at 3.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name at The Church at Harpeth Heights 8063 Hwy 100 Nashville, TN 37221.