James Russell Smith

James Russell Smith, at 52 yrs old, passed away on December 24, 2025. He was born in Battle Creek Michigan on March 28, 1973.

He loved hours walking and hanging out in nature. His friends called him "crash dummy" or "yodaddy". He adored being a grandpa and loved his grandson Sylas. He was always out visiting or just driving back roads. Animals and children were always drawn to him. He loved to hunt with friends, fish and shoot guns with his kids. His dream was to open his own diner. There wasn't much he couldn't season, cook, smoke or BBQ all year round. 

He was very proud of all his boys. He wrestled in school. You had to watch out because he was always trying to keep you on your toes. He was good at telling everyone his stories. Jamie would always say if I wasn't being mean to you then you wouldn't know I loved you. He would go rock hounding for hours. We are thankful to the family and friends that were there to help him out these past two years.

James is survived by Angela Jordan; his sons: William Smith, Krystaffur Smith, Marcus Smith and Anthony "Tyler" Woodworth; his sisters: Sonnie Smith, Tina Kent, and Maria Williams; his brothers: William (Bub) Smith, Doug Kent, and Robbie Aspinall; niece: Elizabeth Smith and nephews: Chase Tompkins and Bradley Smith.

Preceded in death by father William Russell Smith, mother Cynthia Jean (Boyd) Valdez, sons Austin Troy Glover and Cody James Smith. Nieces Courtney and Dolly Smith

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign James’ guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family.

The Smith family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.