James A. Smith

Home going services for James A. Smith were held Saturday, November 19, 2022, at New Bethel Baptist Church. Burial followed in New Bethel Cemetery. McClain-Hays Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Smith, 96, of Philadelphia, died Monday, November 14, 2022.

James lived and worked in Royal Oak, MI, for 37 years and returned to Hope Community in 1987. He was an active member of New Bethel Baptist Church.

Survivors include sons, James Rob Smith of Berkley, MI, and Alan Ray Smith of Groton, MA; daughters, Donna Jean Benkovsky of Eaton Rapids, MI, and Linda S. Pendergrass of Philadelphia, MS; 13 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; brother, Stanley Smith of Jackson, MS.

Mr. Smith was preceded in death by his wife, Janell Smith.

Family requests memorials be made to Operation Christmas Child, Samaritan’s Purse, or Quality Hospice Volunteer Fund.