James Lavon Smith

Obituary For James Lavon Smith

James Lavon Smith, 48, of Brandon, Florida, passed away on March 5, 2026. He was born in Lewiston, New York, and was the eldest of four boys.

James attended college and proudly served his country as a United States Marine. He was known for his sharp mind and his sense of humor. He loved playing PlayStation and intellectual games like Scrabble, and he enjoyed relaxing with a drink while watching some of his favorite films, especially The Last Dragon and Purple Rain. James had a natural comedic spirit and loved making people laugh.

Those who knew James understood that he could be stubborn at times, but he had a good heart. His personality, humor, and presence left a lasting impression on everyone around him. As a child, one of the many stories that family remembers fondly is how he would sneak out of the house-only to get caught every single time. It became one of those memories that always brought laughter when his childhood was talked about.

James is survived by his loving mother, Wanda L. Smith, and his father, Clinton L. Smith of Cleveland, Ohio. He is also survived by his brothers: Clinton Smith III of Niagara Falls, New York; King (Tameka) Smith of Delaware, Ohio; and Terrell (Ann) Smith of Cleveland, Ohio.

He leaves behind his beloved children: La'Vonna Smith of Cleveland, Ohio; Jazmin Thompson of Euclid, Ohio; Vonn'Asia Smith of Tampa, Florida; and James La'Von Smith of Brandon, Florida. He was also the proud grandfather of four grandchildren: Jaiden Thompson, Aubrey Fletcher, Zaire Lavonn Houchins, and Egypt Hall.

James was preceded in death by his grandparents Elua Powell and Eddie Page, Clinton Sr. and Mary Smith, and his son, Javon Smith.

To know James was to love him. His humor, his stubborn determination, and the love he had for his family will never be forgotten. As one of his favorite lines from The Last Dragon goes, "Catches bullets with his teeth!?. N please!"

James's memory will live on in the hearts of his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

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