James A. Smith, 74

New Albany, MS – James Allen Smith, Sr., 74, died on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 in New Albany, MS. He was born January 29, 1948 in Tippah County to Bobby Alton Smith and Sarah Opal Little Smith. He enjoyed bass fishing, hunting, playing softball and pitching washers. He loved laughter and was known to be a great storyteller. James was a handy-man and enjoyed repairing and building practically anything for anyone, especially his grandchildren, even if it meant building a wrestling ring in the house. He was a very loved husband, father, grandfather and brother and will be missed by all who loved him.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2023 at Bethlehem Church in New Albany with Dr. Jeff Lawrence, Bro. James Steele and Pastor Shane Ray officiating.
He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Jane Hall Smith; three daughters, Lori Jane Smith Arnold (Timothy) of Savannah, TN, Andrea Kristy Smith Steele (James) of Ripley, MS, and Sheena Tara Smith Howard (Grant) of Tupelo, MS; one son, James Allen Smith, Jr. (Terri Lynn) of New Albany; three sisters, Carolyn Jane Cooksey, Tressa Ann Hester (Rickey) and Patsy Diane Smith, all of New Albany; and seven grandchildren: Eddie Smith (Dani), Brody Pickens, Samuel Steele, Caelan August Arnold, Isaac Steele, Jude Howard and Judah Phillips Howard.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Shirley Smith and Elaine Gresham; and two brothers, Bobby Smith and Larry Smith.
Visitation will be on Friday, January 27 from 5:00p.m. until 7:00p.m. and on Saturday, January 28 from 1:00p.m. until 2:00p.m. All times are at Bethlehem Church in New Albany.
United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements. For online condolences and guest registry, please visit www.unitedfuneralservice.com