James Emmitt Smith, age 87, of Brooklyn, MI, passed away, September 23, 2015, peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. He was born July 23, 1928, in Ypsilanti, MI, the son of Emmitt & Clara (Ottmer) Smith. James retired from Motor Wheel in Ypsilanti, MI. He enjoyed fishing, golfing & hunting with his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Emmitt and Clara as well as siblings Alan, Dean, and Marty. James is survived by his children; Ron (Beth) Smith of Belleville, MI, Jesse (Debbie) Smith of Belleville, MI, Mark (Sandy) Smith of Brooklyn, MI, Cherie (Garry) Gordon of Clearwater, FL and Lisa (Joe) James of Fruitland Park, FL. Siblings; Lucy Spehar, Dudley Smith, Donna Camillo, and Judy James. Grandchildren; Becky Ross, Sonya King, Nicole Smith, Lucinda Miller, Micah Smith, Emily Smith, Amanda Smith, Natalie Hamilton, Nathan James, Shannon Johnson, and Samantha Gordon. As well as 18 Great Grandchildren, whom he loved very much and became the light of his life. He also leaves behind many very close friends who have become extended family throughout the years, and several generations of nieces and nephews. Family was extremely important to him, and he was always very generous, compassionate, and giving. He was certainly special to so many, and will be greatly missed. Funeral Services will be held 2:00 PM Sunday, October 4, 2015, at J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home, 2959 N. Adrian Hwy (M-52), Adrian, MI. Visitation will be on Saturday, October 3, 2015, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be Monday, October 5 at 1:00 PM in Washtenong Memorial Park, Ann Arbor, MI.