James Andrew Smith III, 64, of Lynchburg, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 21, 2026, at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital.

James was a graduate of E.C. Glass High School. He had a passion for cooking and worked at various establishments throughout Lynchburg. He also enjoyed taking walks and spending time outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia A. Smith; his parents, James Andrew Smith Jr. and Virginia L. Smith; and his brothers, James H. Gregory, William L. Gregory of Blackstone, VA, Robert E. Gregory of Crewe, VA, and Kenneth A. Smith of Lynchburg, VA. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Mary Frances Massey of Wilmington, DE.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Jamie Chism (Maggie), ; four grandchildren; six sisters: Lillian Coleman (Robert) of Wilmington, DE; Mary Gregory of Blackstone, VA; Barbara Smith, Rosa Smith, Gloria Smith, and Linda S. Keyes (late Elder Joe Keyes Sr.), all of Lynchburg, VA; along with a bonus daughter (Tiffany), step children and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center, Dr. Tebit, Centra Hospice, Lynchburg General 4th Floor Oncology Staff and the dedicated staff who provided care and support. We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to his devoted personal sitter, Venetia Brown, whom we love dearly for her compassionate care and support.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Tharp Funeral Home Lynchburg Lynchburg Chapel at 2:00P.M. Interment will follow at the Baptist Cemetery.

The family will be receiving family and friends at 1408 9th Street daily before 9:00 p.m.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is serving the family.