James Coy Smith passed away peacefully at his North Charleston residence on July 31, 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, papa, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

James "Jimmy" was born on May 28, 1936 in Hamlet, NC. When he was young, his family moved to Charleston, SC. James was an Army combat medic stationed in Germany from 1956-1958. James used his GI bill to attend Palmer College studying business.

James spent his early career in the trucking industry, worked many years at Cummins Engine plant in North Charleston, and retired from Santee Cooper as a substation operator in 2000. Throughout his career, he was known for his hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others.

But more than anything, James was a devoted husband and father. He was married to the love of his life, Lavina, for over 50 years. Together, they raised two children. He was always there to offer guidance and support no matter what challenges they faced.

James is survived by his son, Scott Smith (Tara, with stepchildren Lanie and Ethan); daughters, Robin Smith and Pamela Vanderburg (David); two grandsons that he was so proud of, Preston and Joshua (Milana); and his brother, Robert Smith.

He was preceded in death by beloved wife, Frances Lavina Smith; mother, Gurlie Green Smith; father, James Preston Smith; and his brother, Charles Albert Smith.

Memories of him will be cherished by loved ones and friends.

A private memorial service will be held later.

Here is one of James' favorite scripture.

New International Version

Psalm 91

1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a] 2 I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."

3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. 8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.

9 If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling, 10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. 13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

14 "Because he[b] loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. 15 He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. 16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.