James Robinson Smith

Jimmy was a man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. Born in Miami Beach, Florida, he spent his childhood fishing and enjoying the ocean. He attended and graduated from Augusta Military Academy in Virginia. His dedication and sense of duty led him to serve in the Army Air Corp. Following his service, he pursued higher education at UNC, where he became a proud member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Jacqueline Rigsbee. Their love story began with Jacqueline calling him "sweetie face," and they were married in 1949, sharing a bond that lasted a lifetime.
Jimmy worked as a sales manager for Motor Bearings & Parts Company in Durham, NC, where they made their home. He was a devoted member of Yates Baptist Church, where his faith and community spirit shone brightly. In his retirement, Jimmy's zest for life continued as he enjoyed fishing, playing tennis, creating stained glass art, and tending to his garden. He lived a life full of passion and never had an idle moment.
He is predeceased by his sister Holly Neaves from Elkin, North Carolina. He leaves behind his cherished wife, Jacqueline Ann Smith, married for 75 years. Five loving children; James R Smith Jr (Robin) (wife-Melissa), Dixie Carpenter, Cynthia Gorken (husband-Richard), Christopher Smith, and Jacqueline Smith (Faye). 4 grand-children; Brandy Hyde, Clinton Blalock, Nicholas Gorken, Rigsbee Smith and 2 great grandchildren Talan Glover and Dorothy (Dottie) Minick.
A memorial service will be held at Yates Baptist Church in Durham, North Carolina, on March 22nd at 2 pm followed by a reception in the fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jimmy's memory to Yates Baptist Church at 2819 Chapel Hill Road, Durham, NC. His legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will forever remain in our hearts. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our Tree Store.