James Franklin “Smitty” Smith

James Franklin “Smitty” Smith, age 74, of Columbus, OH, went to be with the Lord, July 29, 2020. He was born July 7, 1946 in Stuart County, Richland, GA to the late Mary Bryant Smith and Albert Smith.

James was also preceded in death by his sister, Thelma F. Jackson. He leaves to celebrate his life his wife of 40 years, Ruth Ann Smith; daughters, Alicia (Craig) Reed and Vanessa Smith; grandsons, Brandon Woods and Charles “C.J.” Martin Jr.; niece, Alicia Thomas; cousins; and many other family and friends.

He graduated from Richland High & Industrial School and attended Albany State in Georgia before moving to Ohio in 1967. He was dedicated and worked hard for various companies, such as Grandle, McGraw Hill, Medline and DHL. Smitty enjoyed OSU football, watching movies, listening to music, fishing, bowling, and spending quality time with his grandsons.

A memorial service will be held at a later date so family and friends can all celebrate his life.