United States Army Veteran, Deacon James Arthur Smith of 410 West 4th Avenue, Cordele, Georgia died Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at his residence.

The funeral service will be held Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the sanctuary of the Greater Morris Tabernacle Baptist Church in Cordele, Georgia.  The burial, with military honors, will follow at the Veteran's Section of Bethel Cemetery in Cordele, Georgia.

Deacon James Arthur Smith was born on April 6, 1931, in the serene surroundings of Crisp County, Georgia. He was the cherished son of Josh Smith and Lillie Mae Thomas Smith. James embarked on his educational journey in the public schools of his community and later attended the esteemed Gillespie-Selden Institute in Cordele, Georgia, where he laid the foundation for a life of service and dedication.

A devoted member of the Greater Morris Tabernacle Baptist Church in Cordele, James was a pillar of his faith community. His commitment to the church was unwavering, as he served in various capacities, including as an ordained Deacon. His roles extended to being the sexton of the church, Superintendent of the Sunday School, and the church treasurer, contributing tirelessly to the spiritual growth and administrative needs of the congregation.

James also extended his dedication to the broader community through his involvement with the Masonic Lodge, PHA of Cordele, Georgia, where he found camaraderie and purpose among his fellow members.

James answered the call to serve his country with honor and distinction in the United States Army from March 26, 1953, to February 9, 1956. Following his military service, he embarked on a long and fulfilling career with Belk's Department Store, from which he eventually retired.

On June 1, 1956, James united in marriage with his beloved wife, Pearlene Harris Smith. Their partnership was a testament to love and commitment, and together they shared a life filled with joy and mutual support. James was a family man at heart, and his  legacy is carried forward by his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Deacon James Arthur Smith peacefully transitioned on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and faith. Preceded in death by his wife, Pearlene, and his siblings, Thelma Smith Robinson, Vera Scruggs, Violet Smith, Ella Mae Hill, Josh Smith, John Henry Smith, and Willie Lee Smith, James' memory will be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Deacon James Arthur Smith's life was a testament to dedication, love, and unwavering faith. His impact on his family, community, and church will be felt for generations to come and will be cherished by his loving and devoted children, Venezuela Smith of Savannah,  Georgia, Pearl Sonja Lyons of Leesburg, Georgia, Sharon M. Smith of Cordele, Georgia, and James Bradley (Kim) Smith of Kemper, Texas; a very devoted son-in-law, Gilbert Lyons, Sr. of Leesburg, Georgia; his grandchildren: Zawadi Renata (Chamerro) Cox of    Virginia Beach, Virginia, Khalieh (Wayne) Riley of Lawrenceville, Georgia, James Bradley (Chelsea) Smith, Jr. of Marietta, Georgia; and Gilbert (Ashunti) Lyons, Jr. of Tennille, Georgia; his great-grandchildren, Brynley and Bowen Smith of Marietta, Georgia, Janai Lyons of Columbia, South Carolina, and Robert Benton Lyons, Warren B. Lyons, and Dakari B. Lyons of Tennille, Georgia; many nieces and nephews, to include, Lucille G. Harris of Cordele, Georgia and Wayne Foster of Warwick, Georgia; his caregivers, Madelene Oliver and Gail Gunter of Cordele, Georgia and a host of other relatives and friends.