James Bruce Smith born July 8, 1950 departed this life on Tuesday – May 19, 2026 at his residence in Avawam, Kentucky being 75-years old.  Bruce was born in Avawam, Kentucky the son of the late Robert Smith and the late Alma Williams Smith.  Other than his parents, Bruce was also preceded in death by ten siblings: Bobby, Carylon, Freda, Geraldine, Gertrude, Jerry, Larry, Lilly, Lonnie and Otto.  Bruce worked faithfully in the Coal Mines for 43-years providing for his family.

James Bruce Smith leaves the following relatives to cherish his memory: wife of 54 years, Elizabeth "Betty"; two sons, James "Jamey" and Jason; grandchildren, Arwen and Sawyer; brothers, Tinsley and Ronnie; also a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives & friends survive.

Funeral Services for James Bruce Smith will be conducted on Saturday – May 23, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at the Engle-Bowling Funeral Home with Terry Joseph officiating.  The Interment will follow in the Smith Cemetery located at Big Creek, Kentucky.  The Visitation will be at the Engle-Bowling Funeral Home on Saturday from 11:00 A.M. till 1:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Judes Children Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place – Memphis, TN 38105 in memory of Bruce.

Engle-Bowling Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.