James Allen Smith October 3, 1954 – May 13, 2023 James Allen Smith, passed away on May 13, 2023, in Foster, Oregon. Born on October 3, 1954, in Fort Knox, Kentucky, James spent childhood years in Kentucky, Louisiana, Germany, Texas and Oklahoma prior to moving to Salem, Oregon in the early 1970's.

James worked as a Cherriots Bus Driver before becoming a Corrections Officer with the Oregon Department of Corrections. He was a dedicated employee who took pride in his work and was well-respected by his colleagues. Throughout his life, James had a love for playing pool, chess, and the harmonica. James was known for his generosity and willingness to help others in need. He was a masterful storyteller who could captivate an audience with his humor and wit. His ability to make others laugh was a gift that will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. In these later years, James enjoyed spending time with his children, who brought immense joy and happiness to his life. His love for his family was evident as he loved to do things for and with them and in the simple moments of laughter and time spent together.

James was preceded in death by his father, Frank Smith Jr. and his mother, Patricia Waunell (Tuck) Persons, as well as his sister, Becky Knopf. He is survived by his children, Tim Quezada, Shannon (Greg) Quezada-Willhite, Luke (Alexis) Smith, and Jake (Tiana) Smith; his siblings, Jerry Smith, Jackie (David) Godsey, Terry Smith, Johnny Smith; his stepfather Larry (Veneta) Persons; and six nieces and nephews, four grandchildren and five great- grandchildren.

James will be remembered for his unwavering strength and resilience in the face of adversity throughout his life, his storytelling as well as his love of his family. James's faith in Christ developed and grew as he walked through cancer and the challenges he faced. James's family will cherish the times they shared-especially in these last years as well as the life lessons he imparted to them. His legacy will live on through the stories he told, the memories they shared, and the lives he impacted. Rest in peace in your Heavenly home, James, and know that you will live on in the hearts of those who love you.

A celebration of life service will be held on May 20,2023 at Evergreen Church, Salem 1110 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301 beginning at 1:00 pm.

There will be a reception held for family and friends following the service. James has been laid to rest in the Willamette Memorial Park 2640 Old Salem Rd NE  Millersburg, OR 97321.

In lieu of sending flowers, James asked for family & friends to consider planting a Butterfly Bush or Lilac Bush in your garden in his memory.