James "Bj" Smith Jr.

1969 - 2025

James "BJ" Smith, Jr.

January 10, 1969 - October 18, 2025

BJ was a man of many talents; he loved anything that had to do with woodworking, tinkering, gardening, and working on cars. What brought him the most joy, however, was being a family man. He was a loving father, husband, son, and friend to any and everyone. He began his early life building homes, helping people create a space that they would cherish. He then moved on and became a tow truck driver, again always helping people in need. He was known as the "tow man" for over 20 years.

From the man himself, "Wassssuuuuuuupp, Life's a garden man, dig it. You gotta keep on keepin on until the mothership comes and takes you away, and I will see you on the other side." To know him was to love him.

He is preceded in death by his father and stepmother, James Smith, Sr., and Sue Smith, as well as his brother, Charlie. He is survived by his mother, Judy Christenson; his wife and the love of his life, Joan Smith; and their children, Joey, Alicia, Amanda, Josh (Liz), Kameron, Courtney (Matt), Brooke (Tyler), and Chelsea; his grandchildren, Zander, Marley, and Grayson; his brother, Robbie (Kari) and their children, Haelan, McKinley, and Trever; and his sister, Kaye and her children, Shana and Tyler. He is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews, as well as his beloved dog, Noodle, and grand dogs, Auggie and Potter.

A celebration of life event will be held at Lotz Funeral Home in Salem on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m.

His family would like to give their eternal thanks to the EMS and Emergency Department hospital staff at Lewis Gale Hospital for being an amazing and dedicated team during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request a donation be made to https://shop.alivingtribute.org/. All donations will result in a memorial tree being planted in his honor and also sends a card to loved ones.