James Blair Smith Jr.

James Blair Smith, Jr. (Jimi), age 62 of Gaston County, North Carolina went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, March 20, 2026.

James was born February 08, 1964, in Gaston County to James Blair Smith, Sr and Peggy Derreberry Smith, who preceded him in death.

James is a lifelong resident of Gaston County and was known for his kind heart, work ethics, love of family, catfishing, gold panning and America.

He was lovingly known as "Patriot James" in the fishing world. He was the originator of The Patriot Fishers of America Facebook and You Tube Channel that sponsored The American Heroes Fishing Tournament each year to benefit veterans.

James established his own business, Patriot Custom Floats and hand-made every float he sent out to his customers. It was a personal accomplishment that he took great pride in. He was most happy trying to help others in the fishing world with guidance and patience in learning the art of catfishing. He enjoyed many a great day and night with family and friends out on the lake.

He was an avid outdoorsman who cherished his walks in the woods to reflect and recharge his soul. On these walks he found many abandoned animal and quickly became an animal lover. He leaves behind many kitties and pups that he has rescued over the years, who already miss him dearly.

He was honored to be Brother James Smith, Treasurer of Casar Masonic Lodge 579. He served his brothers, his family, and his friends with honor and devotion, and was a man of integrity and character. He was a loyal friend to all who knew him and spread the cement of brotherly love and affection.

The son of James Sr., a founding member of the South Gastonia Fire Department, he carried on that legacy through dedicated volunteer service from 1979 to 1998.

He was a God loving and God fearing man who cherished the many conversations that he had with Pastor Jeff Hicks.

He is survived by his wife and soulmate of 37 years, Donna Rose-Smith; daughter, Vanessa Smith (Len Withers); son, Shane Rose (Beth); grandchildren, Chase Bingham, Ayden Bingham, Abigail Rose, Evan Rose, Ana Grace Rose. His two "Sons from another Mother", Justin Ledford and Eric Newton. sister, Melissa Ledford (David); brother, Rob Smith (Tina)

A special Thank You with love to Callie and all the Caromont Cancer Center Team members who provided exemplary care to James during his two-year journey with cancer.

In celebration of James' life, services will be held at Greenes Funeral Services - West Chapel - 216 Archie Whitesides Road, Gastonia, NC 28052 on Wednesday, March 25,2026. Visitation at 10am-11am Service in Chapel - 11am Entombment at Gaston Memorial Park with full Masonic Rites to follow services.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Camp Centurion 2126 Bess Town Road, Bessemer City, NC 28016 Phone - 828-726-3281centurion@campcenturion.org

"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and hidden things that you have not known"