James Thomas Smith, Sr., 72 of Bridgeville, Delaware, the son of the late Clemon L. Smith and Mary E. “Dennis” Smith, departed this life on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Tidal Health Hospital in Seaford, Delaware. James was born in Milford, Delaware on November 15, 1953.

James, who was affectionately known as “Tee” was educated at Phyllis Wheatley School in Sussex County Delaware. Later, he met and married his wife Viola E. Smith.

James was a hard worker in previous years. He made sure he provided for his family. James worked as a Weigh Master for Mr. Gary Davis, who became a dear friend to him. He later worked in production at Pet Poultry.

During his spare time, James loved spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed cutting grass and hunting. James gave his heart to the Lord at Mount Olive Baptist Church, where he served on the Men’s Choir. Some of his favorite songs to hear were, “I’m Still Here, Better Days Are Coming and Take a Trip on the Gospel Ship.”

James was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary Edith Smith and Clemon Lee Smith Sr.; a grandchild, Malin; his brothers: Michael, Howard, Marvin and Eugene Smith; a sister-in-law, Alberta Smith; mother and father-in-law: Lillie Mae and Elmer Jacobs; and his brothers-in-law: Louis and Wayne Kane.

James leaves to cherish his loving memories with his wife, Viola E Smith of Bridgeville; 7 children: Ronnie Kane Sr. of Bridgeville, James Kane Jr. (Jacqueline) of Seaford, Latana Kane of Seaford, Michael Kane Sr. (Lapriece) of Dover, Angela Kane of Bridgeville, Tyronne Kane Sr. (Ashley) of Delmar, and Deronn Kane Sr. (Renee) of Milford; 31 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren, a sister, Brenda; 3 brothers: Clemon Jr, Darnell (Youvette), and Charles Smith all of Bridgeville; 4 sisters-in-law: Sara Mann, Gloria Smith, Joyce Sampson, Helene Wise (Darnell); 4 brothers-in-law: Elmer Kane (Rita), Allen Sampson Sr. (Mira), Kenny Sampson (Betty), Gary Sampson (Cheryle), and Clarence Sampson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. James also had 4 close friends whom he loved dearly: Gary Davis, Ronald Kefauver, Freddie, Brown, and William Kittrell.

James will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. If he were with us right now, he would say my wife and kids are some:

“Bad Mammy Tappies”

Loving Submitted

The Family