James Charles Smith

James Charles Smith obituary, Salinas, CA

James Charles Smith

James Smith Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Struve and Laporte Funeral Chapel on Dec. 5, 2024.

Publish in a newspaper

James Smith, born on October 1,1959, passed away on November 26, 2024,
surrounded by his beloved wife, two sons, brother, grandchildren, and a room full of
family and friends.
James was the ultimate family man and entertainer-you'd never walk through his door
without a warm embrace or leave without a plate full of his famous prime rib or tri-tip. He
opened his home and heart to all, making each holiday and event memorable with his
gracious hospitality, quick wit, and humorous nature.
Throughout his career, James was a guiding light for countless families in the
community, helping them achieve their dreams of homeownership. His expertise in
finances, taxes, and mortgages was invaluable, and he always found ways to offer
guidance and mentorship without any expectation for gratitude or recompense. His life
was a testament to selfless giving and the power of sharing knowledge for the
betterment of others.
James was a music lover, singer, and an avid fan of "The Voice" and "American Idol,"
never missing a season. His family and friends would often catch glimpses of his
incredible voice, singing "Amazing Grace" a cappella, or following along to Garth
Brooks, Chris Stapleton, and Teddy Swims.
His greatest joy in life were his five grandsons and two granddaughters. He was the
kind of grandfather who never hesitated to say "yes" to sleepovers and support their
favorite activities, from skateboarding, playing sports to drawing. He was a prominent
presence at every dance recital, game and school events.
Above all else, James was a devoted and adoring partner to his true love, Debbie
Smith. Together they built a life filled with adventure and laughter, traveling to their
favorite places and raising their two sons, Michael and Daniel. His legacy of love,
warmth, and generosity will live on in them, and all the lives he touched along the way.
James is survived by:
His wife of 47 years, Debbie Smith
His sons Michael Smith, Daniel Smith and his wife Bianca
Grandchildren: Bryanna, Aiden, JJ, Ezra, Miles, Zara and Cruz
His mother, Elsie smith
His brother, Tom smith
If you would like, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to:
Jerry Rubin Foundation for Cancer Care
https://jerryrubinfoundationforcancercare.org/donate

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Smith's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?