Clarence James Smith

Clarence James Smith, age 79, of Barbourville, KY, passed away on Monday, April 17, 2023, at Barbourville ARH.

Born in Knox County, he was a son to the late Nelson “Sawmill” Smith and Maraha Hale Smith. Like his father, Clarence worked as a logger. After working in the sawmill, he joined the United States Army, where he served during the Vietnam War. He was a man of faith, and most recently attended Heritage of Truth Apostolic Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed trading, which brought him great joy. Storytelling was by far his greatest talent. His tales of exciting adventures and overcoming great challenges will be greatly missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, Clarie Smith, Mammie Smith, Ethel Smith, Ottis Smith, Arthur Smith, Senior Smith, Gilbert Smith, Robert Smith, Lois Shular, Chris Smith, George Smith, Amanda Smith, Charity Smith, Estlene Smith, and Alice Smith.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie F. Mills Smith, stepchildren, Robert Butcher and Sheila Butcher, 9 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Visitation will be held from 6-9pm on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home.

Funeral service will begin at 2pm on Friday, April 21, 2023, at the funeral home with Bro. Creg Thomas officiating.

Burial will follow at Candle Ridge Cemetery in Knox County, KY.

Arrangements by Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home, where messages may be written to the family at vankirkgrisell.com