Clara Ruth Smith James

Clara Ruth Smith James, age 93, of the Habersham Mills Community in Demorest, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.

Mrs. James was born January 12, 1932 in Tallulah Falls, Georgia to the late Frank Oscar Smith, Sr. and Clara Mae Holcomb Smith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, James Floyd James; infant son, Charles Lamar Bellamy; sister, Evelyn S. West; and brother, Frank O. Smith, Jr.

Mrs. James retired from Scovill Manufacturing, where she had served as the Executive Secretary for many years. After retiring, she also served as a long term caregiver to her family. Clara was an avid reader and inveterate puzzle solver. Most importantly, she will be remembered as an excellent listener, a fierce prayer warrior, and a caring "Mama". She faithfully and generously served her church family at Habersham Baptist Church.

Survivors include her daughter, Charlise James Rowley, of Demorest; cousins, Rev. Billy Burrell, Dolores Shepherd, Laverne Brown; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Amedisys Home Health Service and Hospice of Northeast Georgia. A special thanks to her beloved caregiving team: Sierra Tapley, Donna James, Abigail Dailey, Emily Dailey, and Amy Smith.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 2:45 p.m., Sunday, February 23, 2025 at the funeral home prior to the service.

Funeral Services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, February 23, 2025 at the Whitfield Funeral Home, North Chapel with Rev. Doug Porter officiating. Interment will follow in the Yonah Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to the Habersham Baptist Church, 600 Old Habersham Mill Road, Demorest, Georgia 30535 or live plants donated for installation at the family homestead.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.