On Monday, February 13, 2023, the Lord called James Allen Smoot, Sr. home to rest. James, affectionally known as Deacon Smoot, Daddy, Uncle James, Papa Smoot, Pop-Pop, Allen, Daddy J, Poppa J, and “The Man” was born April 19, 1934, to the late Robert G. and Julianna Smoot. He was the 3rd of nine children born to this union.

James was raised in Bel-Alton, MD where he was educated in the Calvert County public school system.

James worked several years as a cab driver for Barwood, Bell, and Yellow Cab companies and as a self-employed driver. James was known for keeping his cars and cabs in immaculate condition. He later became the primary driver for Alcalde & Fay where he worked for 38 years. He was fortunate during his employment to have friendships with business leaders, cruise line owners and many members of Congress. They enjoyed talking with "Jim" their driver. At the time of his retirement in 2015, James was the Vice President of Transportation. He was loved by his coworkers and clients.

James accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at an early age. During the 1950’s, he relocated to Washington, DC where he joined the Righteous Church of God (RCG), under the leadership of the late Elder William R. Vicks, Sr. and later married, Marlene Kathryn Vicks. From this union, four children were born: Debra, Kathryn, James Jr. and Robert. They were married for 59 years and enjoyed working together in ministry as Missionaries, traveling, cruising, and following the Brencore All-Star band.

James served in many ministries at RCG, including the Radio Choir, the Voices of Praise, the Men’s Choir, and the Missionary Circle Ministry. He was ordained as a Deacon for more than 60 years and served as Chairman of the Deacon Board Ministry and was later honored as Chairman-Emeritus. He also served as Secretary for the Trustee Board Ministry. More recently he was given the title of Senior Statesman by his Pastor, the Rev. Nathan M. Butler.

After the passing of Marlene, James was blessed to find a loving companion in Kate Awkward. They were married on August 26, 2017. During their time together, they enjoyed traveling to many different places, listening to music and

participating in game night fun with family and friends. They also enjoyed spending time fellowshipping at the St. Paul Church.

James called EVERYBODY! He had a set schedule to reach out to his friends, his family, and the saints. He loved to cook and could really cook. At Thanksgiving dinner, he was known for serving his “cream of wheat” mashed potatoes. He loved to watch the Washington Commanders and the Wizards games.

James leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 5 years, Kate Awkward Smoot;

Children: Debra A. (Kelvin) Davis, Kathryn M., James A. Smoot, Jr., Robert L. (Tara) Smoot, Calvin Awkward, Jr., Mischelle Awkward Marshall, Trinity Jennings, and Mozelle Awkward;

Grandchildren: Tarren (James) Parker, Brent Smoot, Corey Smoot, Tyrone Jacobs, Kayla (Thomas) Cabrera, Delonte Holland, Koquenda Awkward, George Calvin Awkward, III, Tiara Curtis, William Marshall, III, Katelyn Marshall, and Niya Jeter;

Great Grandchildren: Jayelle, Jayme, Jayla Parker, Mikal, Kaylani, Aaliyah, Aaron, Jaiden, Jaxen, Jaylen, and Janessa;

Sister and Brothers: Shirley Smoot Johnson, Thomas, Nathaniel (Audrey), Anthony (Geraldine) Smoot, and Victor Salvadore;

Sisters-in-law: Ernestine (Gerald) Key, Patsy Vicks, Margie Vicks, and Patricia Kenan;

Godchildren: Peggy (Pete) Mills, Jesse Ellis III, Michael Jones, and Larissa McKinney;

Extended Family Members: Rita Henderson, LaShawn Keeve, Ramone Kenan, and Peggy Looper.

A host of relatives and many, many special friends.

James was preceded in death by his wife Marlene K. Smoot, and his brothers Robert, Leroy, Wilbert, and Michael.