James Frank Smith, a beloved member of the Springfield community and a faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2023, at the age of 94. Born on March 7, 1929, in Goodwater, Alabama, James was the son of late parents Charlie and Sallie Smith, whose strength and teachings shaped his character and values.
A dedicated man of faith, James was an active member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, where he found solace and strength in God’s love. He was a proud member of the church choir, using his beautiful voice to worship and inspire others. His deep connection to his faith was evident in every aspect of his life.
James found fulfillment in his work as an assembler at General Motors, where he contributed his skills to the automobile manufacturing industry. A diligent and hardworking individual, he took pride in building with his own hands and making a valuable contribution to his community. His commitment to his craft and his unwavering work ethic serve as an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 8 siblings, 2 sons Sherbie Frank Smith and Wali Shamsid-Deen (Arthur Gene) and grandson Torrance Smith and son in law, Alan Bray.
James will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather who held his family dear. He is survived by his devoted wife, Teresa Smith, and his daughters, Clemetine Bray and Maxine Smith, who brought immense joy and purpose to his life. James was also a loving grandfather to his cherished grandchildren and was blessed with a large extended family including 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. His impact on their lives will be forever cherished.
The funeral service will then be held at El-Bethel Temple on September 7, 2023, at 11:00 am, where friends and family will gather to celebrate James’ remarkable life and share cherished memories. Prior to the funeral, a visitation will be held on the same day at 10:00 am at El-Bethel Temple.
Following the services, James Frank Smith will be Rose Hill Burial Park
James will forever be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love for his family, and his commitment to hard work. His legacy of love, perseverance, and dedication will continue to inspire generations to come. As the Springfield community mourns the loss of this exceptional individual, let us keep his memory alive in our hearts and continue to celebrate the life of James Frank Smith.
Dear My Daddy (as I affectionately called him all my life). I will miss you and our talks. I cannot find enough words to express the way I feel right now. It hurt when you kept calling for your mom, Wali, Sherbie, Torrance and your siblings. When you quit calling for them, I knew then that they came to welcome you home. You were the best Dad (My Daddy). God has picked a true soldier to join his army. I am happy that you are at peace and no more pain. You told my sister that I was coming to take you home. Well on September 7, 2023, I will make sure you get home. You deserve to Rest in Peace My Daddy. I would say, love you and you would say love you more. See you later! Love you more and always!
Your daughter, Maxine
Paxtuxent River, MD
I am so sorry for all of his family. He was a good man who loved his family dearly. I have never meet a sweeter more loving generous family. His love will live on in kids, grandkids and their kids. Truly one of a kind.❤️❤️❤️
Dear Smith Family,
I am deeply saddened by the loss of your dear uncle. His long and well-lived life was a testament to his strength and resilience. May you find comfort in the cherished memories you shared with him, and may his legacy of wisdom and love live on in your hearts. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.
With sympathy,
Anthony Strong
My sincere condolences to the Smith Family & all those who knew and loved Mr. Smith!
My sincere condolences to the Smith family.
Great Uncle James Frank, I will miss your quiet spirit, which seem to speak volumes even when you did not say a word.
To : Aunt Teresa, Mack, Clem (show out), Shawn, Dawn, Wali, Tyrone, Chantel, and the immediate family we extend our deepest sympathy.
Prayers for strength and comfort now and for the days to come!
Uncle James Frank, a dearly loved member of the family, will always be remembered until we all meet again where there is no more pain, outcry, suffering or death. Our dad , Aunt Teresa’s late brother Raymond Strong, Sr, always mentioned him with great fondness. Much sympathy and love to Aunt Teresa and all our cousins. We pray our Heavenly Father will grant you all comfort and peace (2 Corinthians 1:3-5)