James "Brent" Smith

James Brent Smith, 65, of Dublin passed away Friday, January 20, 2023 at UNC Health Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Thomas Smith and Mildred Lee Hoover Smith; twin infant sisters: Lucinda and Melinda Smith and nephew, Matthew Smith.

Brent leaves behind his life partner of 42 years, Debbie Hester; brother, Tony Smith and wife Bethel of Maiden, NC; sister, Janet Henderson of Greenville, NC; niece, Ginger Grimes (Thomas) of Greenville, NC; nephew, Colt Henderson (Brittany) of Vale, NC; great-nieces: Kennedy Grimes, Hollis Henderson; great-nephews: Houston Grimes, Shepard Grimes and his beloved fur baby, Becca.

Brent worked in the Auto Parts Business, his entire career...48 years. In 1975, Brent graduated from Tar Heel High School and began his career at Bladen Auto Parts. Walker-Napa Auto Parts, in Elizabethtown, was his most recent place of employment. He always enjoyed the business, his co-workers and his customers.

The family will receive friends at 1pm on Tuesday, January 24th at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown with a funeral service at 2pm. The Reverend Cameron McGill will officiate service. Burial will follow in the Elizabethtown City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.