James Burgess "JB" Smith

James Burgess Smith (JB), 79, of Roanoke, Virginia passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina surrounded by family.

Originally from Asheville, North Carolina, JB was a well-known and respected home builder in the Roanoke Valley, where he spent more than three decades as an active member of the Roanoke Regional Home Builders Association, including 21 years on its Board of Directors. His work ethic and leadership reflected a deep commitment to craftsmanship, professionalism, and his colleagues. He was also a member of Christ Lutheran Church for over four decades.

JB made friends easily and seemed to know people everywhere he went. He loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed hunting and fishing. A talented woodworker, he built numerous pieces of furniture as well as musical instruments, including ukuleles and guitars. He also had a deep appreciation for art, particularly Native American pottery and wildlife paintings by artists such as Terry Redlin.

JB is survived by Becky, his wife of 45 years; his three sons, Jeff (Karrie), Jordan, and Cody (Vanessa); and his grandchildren, Everly and Zachary. JB was preceded in death by his parents, James Clay Smith and Hazel Autrey Smith.

He was a generous and loving father, a devoted husband, and he will be dearly missed.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 16 at 2:00 p.m. in the Patton Avenue chapel of Groce Funeral Home, with the Rev. Allen Rash officiating. The service will be livestreamed on this page beginning at 1:50 p.m. Interment will follow at Pisgah View Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Friday, beginning at 1:00 p.m.