Russell Lee "Buddy" James Aka "Smooth"

Russell Lee “Buddy” James aka “Smooth”, 83 died Friday September 26, 2025 at UNC-Nash Hospital in Rocky Mount, NC surrounded by his family.  He was born on June 6. 1942 in Elizabeth City County (now Hampton) Virginia to Dorothy Elanor McMahon and Russell James.

He was a diesel mechanic for Jim Redwine Garage and Howell Steel Services and was a truck driver. He loved to spend his days with family and friends and fishing.

He was proceeded in death by his mother Dorothy McMahon, his wife Linda James, his sisters Sissy Harrell, Dana Hall and grandchildren Richard Wheeler and Brad Lynch.

Surviving are his five children, Robin Lynch (Matt) of Windsor Va., Wanda Beyette of Emporia, Va., Russell James Jr. (Paula) of Brodnax, Va., Dianne Powell (Robert) of Roanoke Rapids, NC, Penny Clark from Gaston, sisters Susie and Dottie. He had 11 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.

There will be a memorial service on Wednesday October 1, 2025 at 3:00pm in the Chapel at Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service, the family will receive visitors prior to the service from 2:00pm to 3:00pm.

Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Services is handling arrangements for the James family.  Family and friends may sign the online register by visiting www.hockadayfs.com.