James Edward Smith, age 86, of Sheridan, Arkansas, went home to be with the Lord on January 6, 2026. He was born February 16, 1939, to the late Van Henry Smith and Vallie Harvill Smith.

James worked faithfully for Central Maloney Transformer for 38 years. In addition, he owned and operated his own welding company and worked in construction for eight years. He was a devoted Christian man and a longtime member of Salem Missionary Baptist Church, where his faith guided his life and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Shelby Gene Smith, of Pine Bluff.

James is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Mary Jane Clement Smith; his children, Perry Smith (Libby) of Pine Bluff, AR, John Smith (Denise) of Benton, AR, Christy Bush (Mike) of White Hall, AR, Cathy Milligan (Sam) of Victioria, TX.

He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, Krystal Freelen, Kyle Milligan (Sheree), Scott Coffman (Heather), Shane Caviness (Kaylee), Alex Caviness, Nicholas Coffman, Michael Smith (Chasity), Clay Coffman (Krystina), Bailey Smith (Hadley), Emma Padilla (Jesus), and Morgan Bush; 13 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his siblings, Jessie Smith, Charles Smith (Kay), Bob Smith, Patricia Cummings (Marty), and Brenda Bishop (James).

James enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting, but his greatest joy came from spending time with his family and sharing the stories of his life. He will be remembered as a hardworking man, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and a faithful servant of God.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Friday, January 9, 2026 at Salem Missionary Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, AR with Bro. Howard Loetcher officiating. Burial will be in Clement Cemetery in Grant County, near Grapevine. Visitation is also Friday, from 1:00-2:00 P.M.