James Lucas Smith III

James Lucas "Jimmy" Smith, III passed away on April 20, 2025, in Bachelor, North Carolina. He was born on August 31, 1944, in Morehead City, North Carolina. Jimmy resided in Smyrna, NC for the past 2 years.

Jimmy attended the lower grades at Beaufort School. He graduated from high school from Fork Union Military School in Virginia and later attended NC State University, where he graduated from the Ag Institute. Jimmy was self-employed throughout his life, first as a fourth-generation farmer, where he picked up the nickname "Corncob". Later, he was the owner-operator of a trucking business where he was affectionately called "Bossman" by his drivers.

Jimmy was well known for his laughter and storytelling. He never met a stranger. For the last couple of years, he spent time at the Leon Mann Jr. Senior Center, where he enjoyed socializing and dancing. He was a friend to everyone, always up for a good time and ice cream. This world is a quieter place, but heaven is a more cheerful one.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Michelle Pitman and her husband, Matt, son, Brandon Rice and his wife, Brittany, grandchildren Jamie Pitman, Pete Pitman and Parker Rice, sister, Kathryn Smith and his cousin and best friend, Donald Small. He is also survived by his former wife and the mother of his children, Dorothy Houde. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, James L. Smith, IV, and by his parents, Ruth and James L. Smith, Jr.

A funeral service celebrating Jimmy’s life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Oak Grove Methodist Church, located at 3070 Adams Creek Road in Havelock, North Carolina. The service will begin at 11:00 AM with a viewing one hour beforehand. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather for a meal on the grounds at the family farm—a fitting tribute to the connection and hospitality that defined Jimmy’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Leon Mann Jr. Senior Enrichment Center, 3820 Galantis Dr., Morehead City, NC 28557.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noefs.net

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, NC.