James Elton Smith

1948 - 2023

James Elton Smith, known to many as "Blacksmith," departed this earthly life on Friday, December 29, 2023. James passed away peacefully following a short illness while hospitalized in Omaha Nebraska. James was born in Tylertown Mississippi on June 29, 1948, to E.J and Willie Mae Smith. He was the oldest of five children. James received his elementary and secondary education in Tylertown Mississippi and graduated high school in 1966. James joined the United States Army in 1968. After time-served, he relocated to New Orleans, Louisiana where he obtained employment with Sewerage and Water Board and later retired after almost 30 years of service. James was a member of Carver Desire Baptist Church, in New Orleans, under the leadership of Pastor R. James Willis Jr. He served as an usher for many years, until he and his wife relocated to Omaha, Nebraska in September 2022. James is preceded in death by his parents: E.J and Willie Mae Smith; brother, Myzell Bridges; son, James Smith Jr.; and former wife, Joan Smith. James leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Donetta Smith; two-stepchildren, Lamontie Anderson and Simaira Anderson-Woods in Omaha, Nebraska; four siblings, Ollie Mae Willie Smith in Seattle Washington, Darnise Lee in Atlanta, Georgia, and John "Ross" Smith (Yolanda) and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends. Relatives and friends of the family, also officers and members of Carver Desire Baptist Church and all neighboring churches, Sewerage and Water Board are invited to attend the Memorial Services on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 10:00 am. The services will be held at Carver Desire Baptist Church located at 3301 Montegut Street New Orleans, La 70126. Pastor James R. Willis will be officiating the services. Following the services, there will be a repast at the church fellowship hall.