James Roosevelt Smoot

In Loving Memory of James Roosevelt Smoot

James Roosevelt Smoot was born October 28, 1950, in Clear Fork, West Virginia, to the late Melvin and Daisy (Saunders) Smoot. Growing up in the Hollow called High Cole, he enjoyed time with his Grandpa Roosevelt, who fondly nicknamed him “Jimmy John.” A true momma’s boy, James was protective of his mother and carried a heart of gold.

In 1959, James moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he attended Franklin Junior High and graduated from East High School in 1968. The following year, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving honorably as a Jet Engine Technician and receiving recognition for his academic excellence during his service in Vietnam.

After the military, James built a long career in construction, working for Smoot Construction and Valley Interior Systems, Inc. He retired in January 2014 and was honored by the Ohio Laborers’ District Council for his contributions to the community.

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the age of 74, James departed this earthly life peacefully.

He was preceded in death by his parents Melvin and Daisy (Saunders) Smoot; grandparents Cyril and Grace Smoot and Ora and Roosevelt Saunders; and sister Brenda Smoot.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children Duane (Tasha) McGee, Curtis Mitchell, Jamie Smoot-Mason, James Smoot Jr., and Danica Garrett; grandchildren Marilyn McGee, Tanaysia Mitchell, Kristopher Mason, Emma McGee, Braeden Barry, Jalen Smoot, Messiah Johnson, Daelyn McGee, Da’Leah McGee, and Emeri Smoot; great-grandchildren Tommie Earl Brown and Draymond Evans; siblings Gloria (Waymond) Dotson, Melva (Fletcher) Berger, Karen Matthews, Kenneth Smoot, Bruce Smoot, Wanda (Archie) Benton, and Kevin Smoot; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM followed by the Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Refuge Temple Church, 555 Moler St., Columbus, Ohio.
 

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