James "Jim" Thomas Mears III, of Newport News, VA, went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 17, 2026. He passed away peacefully with his family by his side and was joyfully reunited with his beloved wife of 70 years, Edith, at the gates of heaven.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Thomas Mears and Edna Ball Mears; his brothers, Harry Mears and Calvin Mears; and his wife, Edith Mears.

He is survived by his son, James Douglas Mears (Patty); his daughter, Rhonda Mears Passaro (Jerry); five grandchildren: Michelle Berry (Tyler), Barrett Mears (Shannon), Austin Passaro (Samantha), Lauren Dracon (Nick), and Shannon Passaro (Joel); and one great-grandchild, Landon Berry.

Born on August 26, 1933, in Accomac County on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Jim lived a life marked by faith, hard work, service, and genuine kindness. He was a devoted Christian who accepted Christ as a young boy and faithfully served as a deacon at Deer Park Fellowship and was a longtime member of the Bremond Masonic Lodge and an active member of The Gideons International, sharing God's Word with countless people throughout his life by distributing Bibles in hotels, schools and to troops going overseas.

After graduating from Newport News High School in 1951, he answered the call to serve his country in 1954 when he was drafted in the U.S. Army. While serving in the Army, Jim married Edith on April 24, 1954, which in his own words was "the best thing I ever did." Following his military service, Jim built a successful career that spanned nearly four decades, including positions with Exxon Corporation, York Oil Company and E.T. Lawson.

Jim will be remembered as a humble man of unwavering faith, thoughtfulness, and quiet generosity. While he was proud of his military service, career, and community involvement, he considered his greatest gift to be his family. He loved the Lord, and often said that God had blessed him with "the most wonderful wife anyone could hope for," two children, and grandchildren who always knew how deeply they were loved and made him immensely grateful.

The family will receive friends Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm at W. J. Smith Funeral Home in Newport News, VA with a funeral service beginning at 1:30 pm. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Deer Park Fellowship in Newport News, VA, or The Gideons International.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23