James E Smith

James E. Smith, 91, of Ashland, Kentucky, widower of Barbara Vanhoose Smith, passed away Monday evening, November 10, 2025 surrounded by his loving family, at Community Hospice Care Center in Ashland. He was born Friday, November 17, 1933 in Ashland, the oldest child of the late Solomon and Jane Gallaher Smith. James was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 892, American Legion Post 76, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2329, and was retired from the City of Ashland Street Department. His hobbies included fishing, playing cards, and he loved restoring and collecting vintage cars, but he will always be remembered as a provider for his family and being an amazing father and grandfather. In addition to his parents and wife, Barbara, of 56 years, James is preceded in death by a daughter, Michelle Ann Wilkes, and son James D. Smith. Left to cherish his memory includes three daughters, Venia (Charlie) Vanover of Greenup, Kentucky, Terri VanHorn of Ashland, Kentucky, and Teresa Bryan (Ross) of Chesapeake, Ohio; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren and a great-great-granddaughter on the way. A graveside funeral service will be held at 12 Noon at Golden Oaks Memorial Gardens on Friday, November 14, 2025. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mfhfuneralhome.com. Contributions to the Alzheimer's Association for Alzheimer's Awareness may be sent in James' honor to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America at 322 8th Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001. Arrangements are under the direction of Miller Funeral Home in Ashland.