Anderson, Indiana - James Robert Smith, 79, went to his heavenly home on January 20, 2026, at Community Hospital East in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was born March 1, 1946, in Anderson, Indiana. He was the son of Thomas Franklin and Margaret Hortence (Ryan) Smith and resided all of his life in Anderson, Indiana.

James graduated from Highland High School in 1964, and later graduated from International Business College, earning a degree in Accounting. He married the love of his life, Linda Mae (Wells) Smith, on May 8, 1971. Linda preceded him in death in 2016. They were married for 44 years. He was also preceded in death by his second wife, Kathleen Sumner-Smith, in 2024. James was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era as a Military Policeman.

James started working in the foundry at Delco Remy and eventually worked as an electrical engineer for various General Motors subsidiaries.

He was a member of Kingston Avenue Baptist Church where he taught Sunday School for many years. James enjoyed golfing, watching General Hospital, and was a huge LA Dodgers fan. He especially enjoyed traveling with his family.

James is survived by his loving children, Chantell Detling (Terry) and Frank Smith (Leslie); grandchildren, Jared Smith (Lexie), Rylan Detling, Gavin Smith, Delaney Detling and Julia Smith and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Tom and Gary Smith.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Loose Funeral Homes & Crematory in Anderson, Indiana.

Services will follow visitation on Tuesday, at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Pastors Tim Overton and Brad Storm officiating.

Burial will follow at Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kingston Avenue Baptist Church in Anderson, Indiana.

Online condolences may be made to the family in care of www.LooseCares.com.