Word has been received of the death of James Smals, a Charis Fellowship ordained elder who was a member of First Brethren Church, Buena Vista, Va. (Michael Hamilton, pastor). His obituary appears below.
James Russel Smals, 89, of Buena Vista, Va., died Friday, June 12, 2020.
Born May 10, 1931, in Rockbridge County, he was the son of George R. and Ruby L. Smals.
He was a Grace Brethren ordained reverend and elder. He spent over 70 years in ministry to his Lord Jesus Christ including pastoring at Concord Church of the Brethren in Fairfield. Rev. Smals retired after 30 years of teaching at Parry McCluer High School, and also drove a school bus for Rockbridge County for 12 years. He also taught for two years at Rockbridge Christian Academy. He was a true jack of all trades. Rev. Smals’ main purpose in life was to be the best servant of God he could be and care for all people more than himself.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Ramsey Smals; a son, Daniel W. Smals; grandsons Nicholas R. Lynn and Jarrod H. Smals; sisters Dorothy Cravello and Jean Lawhorn; and brothers Charles “Buddy” A. Smals, and G. William Smals.
Surviving are his daughters, Rebecca Lynn (Galen), Teresa Evans (Mike), and Miriam Winston (Jennings “Skip”); and sons, Paul Smals (Donna), Brian Smals; 11 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held 6 p.m. Saturday, June 20, 2020, at First Brethren Church, Buena Vista, Va. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m.
Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, and Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.