James Warren Smith, 63, passed away at his residence in Bay Springs, Mississippi, on Sunday, March 23, 2025.

"Jimmy" as he was affectionally known by family and friends, was born on September 28, 1961 to Jerry and Naomi "Putt" Smith in Laurel, Mississippi. After graduating from Bay Springs High School, he enlisted in the Mississippi National Guard, then attended Jones County Junior College technical school to learn electrical maintenance, air conditioning and refrigeration. He made a career as an industrial electrician, with most of his working years at Georgia Pacific in Bay Springs.

Jimmy was happiest when surrounded by nature. He was an avid deer hunter and fisherman. He loved his cabin in the woods and spent much time there since his retirement. Camping was a big part of his life, and he considered Townsend, Tennessee his home away from home. He had a great love for Cades Cove and all things Smoky Mountains.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Sandra Thigpen Smith; his daughter, Naomi Cai Heng Smith; mother-in-law, Evelyn Windham; by his sisters, Beth Adams (Don), Lynda Hardin (David), Michelle Staley, and brother-in-law, Paul Thigpen. He is also survived by his granddaughters, Olivia Jordan (Hunter Maxey), Amanda Jordan (Austin Jernigan); great-grandchildren, OakLeigh Pitts, Kaedence Pitts, Tyler Jernigan, Arthur Jernigan, Annabelle Jernigan, Aleah Jernigan, and Brycen Maxey; and a host of nieces and nephews.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry Ned Smith and Naomi McDonald Drummond, father-in-law, David E. Thigpen and daughter, Shasta Leigh Smith Jordan.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025 from 1:00-2:30 PM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Bay Springs. Graveside services will follow at 3:00 PM at Lake Como Baptist Church Cemetery.

To view and sign online guestbook, visit www.colonialchapelbaysprings.com