Mr. James “Jim” Dudley Smith III, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, was called home on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the age of 80. He passed peacefully in the comfort of his own home, holding his daughter’s hand.

     Jim was born on March 31, 1945, in Kinston, North Carolina to the late James Dudley Smith II and Mary Sugg Smith. He is also preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife, Peggy Joyce Smith (formerly Brock), and his sister, Laura Hedrick.

     At the young age of 21, Jim answered the call to serve his country and spent five dedicated years in the United States Navy, including time deployed during the Vietnam War. He carried that same quiet strength and dedication with him throughout the rest of his life.

     After his service, Jim returned home and built a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. He had a deep affection for the outdoors and found peace in the rhythm of caring for his chickens and casting a line into the water during a quiet fishing trip. One of his favorite places on earth was Gulf Shores, Alabama, where he spent many cherished vacations, soaking up the sun and making memories with his family.

     Jim’s sense of humor was one of his defining traits—his quick wit and easy laugh brought joy to everyone who knew him, even during his hardest moments. Whether it was a well-timed joke or a story told with a twinkle in his eye, he had a special way of lifting spirits and leaving people smiling.

     Above all, Jim was a devoted family man. He was a loving and supportive father, a proud grandfather, and a comforting presence in the lives of those he loved. His family was his greatest pride, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

     Survivors include his daughters, Karen Marie Austin (Bobby) and Rebecca Ann Watson; his grandchildren, Logan Brock Smith, Marcel Dash Austin, Brandy Redwine (Tyrome), and Brandon Michael Connor; his great-grandchildren, Brandon “BJ” Montgomery, Mia Redwine, and Malaysia Redwine; his sister, Janet Collins, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

     Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 1pm at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel with Chaplain Greg Hall officiating. Interment will follow at Oaknoll Memorial Gardens. 

The family will receive friends at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 11am to 12:45pm. Serving as pallbearers will be Jack Harwell II, Jack Harwell III, Crickett Knight, Wyatt McClung, Sam Stallings, Blake Headrick, and Mike Bagley.

     Jim’s family would like to give a special thanks to his devoted caregivers, Rhonda Goforth and Shannika Peek.

     Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Mr. James “Jim” Dudley Smith III.