James Oather Smith

James Oather Smith, age 70, found peace and healing in heaven on December 23, 2016 after a long battle with cancer. He was born August 18, 1946 to James Colonel Smith and Ruby Sullens Smith in Lumpkin County, Georgia. He was a longtime resident of Murrayville, and a member of Yellow Creek Baptist Church.  

He is survived by the love of his life, Linda Jarrard Smith, wife of 52 years, Children: Sherrie and Bengy Buffington, of Murrayville, GA, Terrie and Kevin Stephens of Gainesville, GA, and Tracy and Shelley Smith of Homer, GA; seven grandchildren, five great grandsons and a host of family and friends.  He was a hardworking self-employed man who with the help of his loving wife founded Smith Concrete Incorporated.  He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a fun loving Pop. He lived life big, gave of himself freely and never met a stranger. Heaven has gained an angel as we let go of our legend.

Funeral services will be held December 28, 2016 at Memorial Park North Chapel at 2 p.m. With graveside services at Yellow Creek Baptist Church, 6007 Yellow Creek Road Murrayville, Georgia 30564. The Reverend John Rayburn and the Reverend James Elrod will officiate. The family will receive friends Monday, December 26, 2016 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday, December 27, 2016 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Online condolences can be made at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.  Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel 989 Riverside Drive Gainesville, Georgia 30501. 770.297.6200.