James Waldo Smith

Surrounded by the warmth and love of his family, James Waldo Smith passed peacefully from this life on April 12, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on October 9, 1934, in Cedarville, West Virginia, James lived a long, full life rooted in hard work, cherished traditions, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear. A man of great determination and work ethic, James spent more than 35 years paving roads across multiple states, ultimately retiring as a respected foreman from Newton Asphalt. Throughout his career, he trained and mentored many young workers, passing down the skills, discipline, and pride that defined his own approach to the job. He was admired not only for the quality of his work but also for his entertaining attitude, guidance, and the genuine friendships he formed along the way. James was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in gardening, fishing, and hunting—especially during his many trips to Colorado and West Virginia. His garden was one of his greatest sources of pride. Each August, he turned potato harvesting into a friendly but serious competition, measuring how many bushels he grew compared to previous years. He had his daughter Kim’s family right there with him, all down in the dirt, digging for every last potato to make sure the count was exact. James and Linda spent much of the late summer canning the fruits of his labor, filling their shelves with jars of tomatoes, tomato juice, green beans, corn, and cabbage—preserving not just food, but the joy and hard work that went into every harvest. He also took pride in the hunting trophies that decorated his homes in Virginia and West Virginia, each mount a story of adventure and accomplishment. James was also an avid bowler, a hobby that brought him excitement, camaraderie, and a healthy competitive edge. Over the years, he earned numerous trophies and awards, celebrating his skill and his love for the sport. Bowling took him on adventures across the United States as he traveled to tournaments near and far, with his favorite competitions held in Reno, Nevada. These trips were filled with laughter, friendship, and stories he loved to share. Following retirement, James devoted much of his time to improving the family homeplace in West Virginia. With his skilled hands, he brought the house into the modern era—installing plumbing, electricity, central heating and air conditioning, and of course satellite TV so he could cheer on his favorite teams: every West Virginia team, the Cleveland Indians, the Washington Nationals, and the Washington Redskins. James’s cooking was legendary. His down‑home recipes—often perfected with a touch of bacon grease—were made with love and enjoyed by all who gathered at his table. His sausage gravy and biscuits were a treasured Christmas tradition, eagerly awaited each year. James also had a deep and tender love for his pets. His dogs—Precious, Coco, Nikki, and Fluffy—were constant companions who brought him comfort, joy, and laughter. At his home in West Virginia, he cared for many cats who wandered into his yard and into his heart. His granddogs adored him as well, always greeting him with excitement and affection. But above all, James’s greatest joy was his family. In West Virginia, his home was a constant gathering place, filled with cousins, nieces, and nephews who loved to stop by for a visit. At home, nothing meant more to him than time spent with his lifelong love, Linda, and with Kim and her family. His role as “PaPaw” to his grandchildren was the one he cherished most—whether cheering them on at activities, sharing holiday traditions, or creating unforgettable memories on family vacations. Every moment with them was a gift he held close, and those memories remain a lasting part of his legacy. James will be remembered for his rambunctious spirit, his laughter, his storytelling, and the boundless love he shared with everyone around him. His legacy continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew him and in the cherished memories he leaves behind. James is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Linda Smith, who was his constant companion and greatest support. He leaves behind his daughters Juanita Smith (Joe), Rebecca Sebrell (Gary), Deloris Santiago (Lenny), Marilyn Evans (Lee), and Kimberly Lingafelt (John). He was a proud grandfather to Andrew, Chase, Sean, and Kara, and was loved by countless nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren whose lives were enriched by his wisdom, humor, and warmth. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Nera Smith; brothers Fred and Lewis; sisters Sylvia, Peg, Rita, Nell, and Alice; and his beloved son Marty. In honor of James’s life and in gratitude for the compassionate care he received, the family invites donations to VITAS Community Connection at www.vitascommunityconnection.org. A visitation will be at Miller Funeral Home at 10:00am on Thursday, April 23rd, 2026, followed by a memorial service at the funeral home chapel at 11:00am. Address: 3200 Golansky Blvd, Woodbridge, VA, 22192. The family will accept friends and family for lunch following the services at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 12965 Trentdale Drive, Dale City, VA, 22193.

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James Waldo Smith

April 12, 2026