James Michael Smith

James Michael Smith, 60, of Salisbury, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, June 11, 2024, peacefully with his family, Pastor, Pastor’s wife, and friends by his side at Novant Health Rowan Regional Medical Center. James courageously and determinedly fought his prolonged battle with Early Onset Alzheimer’s/Dementia. He was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Mary. Born September 12, 1963 in Albany, GA, he was the beloved son of the late Eunice Beaver Smith and Ray Smith, Sr. James led a remarkable life filled with service, dedication and love. At just 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. James was deployed to Beirut, Lebanon, where he played a vital role in the aftermath of the 1983 bombing. He was proud of his time as a Marine Drill Instructor and his other service to both the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army. His bravery and commitment did not go unnoticed. James was a decorated Veteran, earning numerous recognitions, to include various Decorations, Medals, Badges, Citations and Campaign Ribbons. This also included: Rifle Expert, Pistol Expert, Meritorious Mast, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 3 stars, Marine Corps Artic Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation with 2 stars, and many more for his outstanding contributions. He served time caring for and assisting others after the 911 attack on New York’s Twin Towers. When there was a troop reduction James joined and served in the United States Army. After his military service, James continued to serve in various capacities from being a Police Officer in Minco, OK to joining the Army Reserves, where he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant. His dedication to protecting others extended to the FAA in Oklahoma City under Homeland Security. James was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 3466 Dept., in South Charleston, WV. James was known for his infectious sense of humor and ability to bring joy to those around him. His laughter was contagious and his gift of storytelling made him a cherished companion to many. He had a way of connecting with people from all walks of life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. In his free time James enjoyed fishing, hunting and shooting – passions that brough solace and joy. He was an expert marksman and a proud gun enthusiast, embodying the values of discipline and precision that defined his military and professional career. As we mourn the loss of James, we celebrate the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to serving others, making people smile and cherishing family. His courage, valor, vigilance, perseverance, humor and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our family is especially grateful for the love and care of James and family support from his doctors, specialists, nurses, Pastor, caregivers and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, William and Virgie Beaver, Cecil and Lilly (Burdette) Smith, his late Father-in-law, John Melchor, his beloved sister, Davia and late Bonus son, Ethan Moore. Left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife, Mary Melchor Smith; daughter, Jenny Fuller and husband Clay and their children Gabe, Silas, and Brie; daughter, Kim Swartz and husband Austin and their children Raegan and Rowan; bonus daughter, Marissa Moore and wife Vivian; bonus son, Luke Moore and his daughter Marlee. Sisters, Lisa Johnson and Roger and her children Billy, Bobby, and Bruce; Arrietta Burgess and her children Jessie and Josh; Tena Wier and husband Bob and their children Joseph and Katelynn; and brother, Ray Smith, Jr. and his children Scott and Ida; mother-in-law, Carolyn Childress Melchor, brother-in-law’s, Willie Melchor and wife Kristen and children Brittany, Josh and wife Ashley and daughter, Makynzie; Jeremy and wife, Sabrina and their children Tucker and Sawyer; Tony Melchor and wife Wendy and their children Hanna and Hayden; as well as a large extended family including nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and many friends. The family will receive friends from 12-1 PM Thursday (June 27) at Summersett Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 1 PM in Summersett Memorial Chapel with Pastor Darrell Cox officiating. Burial with Military Honors will be in the Salisbury National Cemetery (501 Statesville Blvd, Salisbury, NC) at 2 PM. Flowers or memorial gifts to the family of James Michael Smith are appreciated or you may make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, 4600 Park Road, Suite 250, Charlotte, NC 28209. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Smith family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

James Michael Smith

September 12, 1963 - June 11, 2024