James Paul Smith

January 18, 1940 — August 7, 2026

Rocky Mount

James (Paul) Smith, age 86 of Rocky Mount went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 7, 2026. He was preceded in death by his father, Kermit Smith; mother, Lacy Smith; along with three brothers, Earl Smith, Bobby Smith and Dennis Smith; two sisters, Jean Sloan and Ana Lou Thompson; and his son, Tommy Smith.

Surviving are his wife of 46 years, Bonnie Smith; four daughters Robin (Jeff) Coffey, Michelle (Eddie) Lannen, June (Joe) Childrey and Angela Hurley; daughter-in-law, Ruby Smith; seven grandchildren, Josh Coffey, Megan Coffey, Elliott Smith, Caitlyn Shieler, Julia Berry, Dylan Lannen, and Michael Hurley; 14 great-grandchildren; special sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Connie and Garrett Hodges; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Paul worked many years for Leo Scott Cabinets before retiring after 33 years. He then dedicated his time driving for Franklin County School Bus Transportation until he decided to retire once again after 17 years.

Paul was a faithful member of Christian Fellowship Church of Glade Hill.

Paul was a man of God, a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his family. He will be missed so much.

The family would like to thank Carilion Hospice of Franklin County and his brother-in-law, Jimmy Altice for all of their help and care.

Funeral services will be held at Flora Funeral Chapel, 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 13, 2026 with Chaplain Rick Poland and Mr. Kevin Tosh officiating. Interment will follow in Franklin Memorial Park. His family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.

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