James "Goob" Ronnie Smith

James “Goob” Ronnie Smith, age 73, of Gray, Tennessee, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2019 while at Waters of Johnson City.  Born in McDowell County, North Carolina on February 25, 1946, he was the son of the late Ralph and Georgia Thomas Smith. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lovina Smith; one son, Chad Smith; and an infant brother. 

A member of Strong Tower Baptist Church in Gray, Tennessee, James was an avid Carolina Tar Heels basketball fan and known as a pro fisherman. 

He is survived by two sons, Tony Smith (Jaclyn) of Gray, Tennessee and Steven Banks (April) of Swannanoa, North Carolina; and two grandsons, Dakota Smith and Hunter Smith.  A slew of friends knew him and called him dad, including Keith Harris, Gary Ledford and a very special friend, Jack Orders of Morganton.

A celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. at Strong Tower Baptist Church in Gray with Pastor Ancel Presnell, Jr.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., prior to the service, at the church.

A private interment will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Marion, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Smith’s memory are asked to consider, Strong Tower Baptist Church, 1022 Old Stage Road, Johnson City, Tennessee 37615.