James Edward Smith, Jr.

  James Edward Smith, Jr. November 23, 1965 – April 3, 2019 James “Eddie” Edward Smith, Jr., 53, of Lucama passed away Wednesday, April 3, 2019. His memorial service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at Joyner’s Funeral Home, Wilson.  The Rev. Johnny Hendricks will officiate. The family will receive friends Tuesday morning from 10 – 10:45 a.m. prior to the service at Joyner’s Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson. Growing up Eddie loved flashing lights, going fast and guns.  As a young man it was clear what career path he was going to take.  Eddie began his Law Enforcement career with the Elm City Police Department in 1992.  He came to the Wilson County Sheriff’s office in 1995 where he served for Sheriff Wayne Gay and was assigned to Criminal Patrol.  During his time of service at the Sheriff’s Office he performed the duties of Patrol Deputy, Domestic Investigator, Narcotic Detective Emergency Response Team and served as a Corporal on the Motorcycle and Traffic Unit.  Eddie received the Drug Buster, Officer of the Year, Volunteer Service and Good Conduct awards during his career. After his career in law enforcement, he began working with Firestone/Bridgestone as the Fire Safety Technician until 2017.  Eddie was a former member of the Black Creek Fire Department and Wilson Rescue Squad.  He was an avid fan of NASCAR and air shows. Eddie is survived by his daughter, Shelby Smith of Wilson; sister, Heather Johnson and husband, Wayne of Wilson; niece, Emma Johnson; nephew, Garrett Johnson and his grand-pup, Navy Smith of Wilson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Imogene Smith. Condolences may be directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home at www.joyners.net.