James Earl Smith, Jr.
James Earl Smith Jr., a devoted husband, father and “Papa”, passed away on April 3, 2026. James was born on October 9, 1972 to James Earl Smith, Sr and Carolyn Smith.
He was a man whose life was defined by his unwavering love for his family and friends. James shared a beautiful life with his wife, Teresa, and together they built a legacy that will live on through their children and his cherished grandbabies; who were truly the light of his life.
Beyond his home, James found great joy and purpose in his faith and fellowship. He was a dedicated member of his church small group, where he surrounded himself with a devoted group of men; each of whom held a special place in his heart.
James never met a stranger. He was a man of many friends, known for his kindness and the genuine way he connected with everyone he met. He will be remembered as a cornerstone of his family, a man who showed up, loved fiercely, and left every place a little brighter than he found it.
James is preceded in death by his father, James Earl Smith Sr.
James is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Smith; daughters, Kelsea Littleton (Blake) and Brooke Smith; grandchildren Emery, Ensleigh and Ellie Littleton; mother, Carolyn Smith and sister, Dawn Alexander.
Services will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Christian Life Fellowship in Calera. A visitation will be held at 11:00 am and followed by a service at 12:00pm. He will be laid to rest in Shelby Memory Gardens.
James will be missed. A loving & caring man. Loved him.
Since the day I first met James, he always let everyone know about his Jesus. He was the sweetest man of God I know. He is in Heaven walking on streets of Gold!!
He will leave behind a lot people who will truly miss him. If you never got to hear his testimony, you missed a blessing!! He is now where we long to be!! We love you all
Bro. Donald Bice and Sis. Janice 🙏😘
We are so saddened by the loss of Fellow! He was such a good man, so much like his Dad! We are in prayer for all of you!
Patricia and Mike Smith
James deeply loved his Jesus and his family. He was kind, caring and loving Christian man. He will be missed by many people. Rest in Peace James! Herschel and I truly love you.
Life on this earth is short. Shorter for some, James’s life here was short but he left a lasting love for all of us to remember him by. He did love Jesus and tried to become more like him in all his ways. James was a great friend to me and I will forever remember him. May we all cling to the promise of eternal life that James has achieved. See you soon my friend.
James was a great person and he will be missed by many. His legacy will live on though.