November 21, 2024, 68, Goldsboro —
James Bennie Smith, 68, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center surrounded by his family. Bennie was born in Wayne County on May 4, 1956, to Shirley Wallace Downey and the late James Smith, Jr. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother, Eddie Smith.
Bennie loved his wife, kids, and grandchildren with all his heart. They were his pride and joy. Bennie also loved to sing and had the smoothest tenor voice. People were always touched by his voice and testimony. Bennie was the lead singer with the original Anchormen Quartet for many years. He also sang with his brothers and stepfather as well as with many churches and choirs.
He was an avid hunter and fisherman which led him into taxidermy. Bennie also loved the game of softball and enjoyed playing with all of his buddies.
Bennie had worked for General Industries, and Britt Industries, and had owned his own archery business and welding business. Before retiring, Bennie was a valuable employee of Thomas Built Buses in High Point.
The family will receive friends on Monday, November 25, 2024, from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at The First Church in Goldsboro followed by a service to celebrate Bennie’s life at 5:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Rev. Danny Rollins and Rev. Bill Rose officiating.
Bennie is survived by his wife, Bridget Smith; daughter, Amanda Smith Parrish (Phillip); son, Joshua Brandon Smith (Morgan); mother, Shirley Downey and husband, Jerry; step-son, Anthony Melrose (Caroline); step-daughter, Leah Starkie (Tyrone); grandchildren, Ivy Lee Smith, Alexis Grace Braswell, Paizlee Brooke and Mason Lee Melrose, and Josiah Eric and Asaiah Nicolas Starkie; brothers, Christopher Downey (Melba) and Jeremy Downey; sister-in-law, Tonya Smith; and his beloved K-9 companion, Gracien.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in his memory to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
