Jim Smith

James Conway Smith, 85, of Hudson went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday September 13, 2020 at Caldwell County Hospice and Palliative Care in Hudson.He was born to the late Julius Livingston and Connie Conway Smith.Other than his parents he was preceded in death by his brother June Smith, sisters Rachel and Charlotte Smith and Margaret Scronce. He was a graduate of Hudson High School and attended Gardner Webb University. He proudly worked and retired from Broyhill Industries after 55 years of employment.His enjoyments included hunting, fishing, all sporting events and he was so proud of the young men he coached over the years. His children cherish the fact that he never missed a sporting event regardless of the time or place.He was their biggest and sometime loudest fan.Attending sporting events also carried over to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His greatest strength and legacy was his commitment to witness to others.He never missed an opportunity to talk about his Lord and Savior even inviting his friends and strangers to attend his church. Mountain Grove Baptist Church in Granite Falls is where he attended and was a member from birth.He was a proud deacon for many years and served as class secretary for the Sunday school class of Ronald Beane.Because of his love to see people attending church he served as a greeter for a number of years where he could acknowledge them for their attendance. Those left to cherish his memories are his wife of 67 years Anna Dean Spicer Smith, his sons Terry and wife Tracy, Chris and wife Kim, Tim and wife Debra, his daughter Beth Austin and fiancé Martin Webb; grandchildren Aaron, Kelsey, Spencer, Adam, Logan, Landon, Preston, Laura, Lacie and Andrew; and 10 great grandchildren; brothers Allan Smith and wife Donna, Doug Smith and wife Susan. A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held on Tuesday September 15, 2020 at Mountain Grove Church cemetery at 1:00 and officiated by Reverend Tim Bean and Ronald Beane. The family requests face masks be worn and social distancing practiced. Pallbearers are Spencer Smith, Adam Smith, Logan Smith, Eric Smith, Brian Crowe and Rick Doherr. Honorary pallbearers are Preston Austin and Landon Smith The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Cranberry House, Watauga Medical Hospital, Foley Center and Caldwell County Hospice and Palliative care. In lieu of flowers and food, memorial contributions may be sent to Caldwell County Hospice902 Kirkwood St. NW, Lenoir NC 28645