James Maurice Day

James entered this life on April 4, 1967, in Dayton, Ohio. He departed this life unexpectantly on February 1, 2026.

James was educated in the Dayton Public School System and after receiving his GED worked as a truck driver. He went on to build a strong career, holding both local and over-the-road positions before eventually joining the Montgomery County Environmental Services in Solid Waste as a transfer semi-truck driver.

Known to his coworkers as “J. Day,” to family and friends as “Bo Dolla,” and affectionately to his grandchildren as “Big Daddy,” James was a private man who kept his cards close to his chest. Though reserved, his heart was full of love for his family and friends.

James was hardworking and deeply passionate about life, family, and doing what was right. He was always eager to explore new restaurants and enjoy good food and drinks, finding joy in new experiences. These memories will be forever cherished by those who knew him.

James was the founder and first president of KinFolks Motorcycle Club. This role reflected both his natural leadership and passion, contributing to the club’s early history and legacy.

James was a true grill master. No matter the weather, he could be found firing up the grill or smoker, searching for new gadgets, concocting new spice blends, or developing techniques to perfect his craft.

James was an amazing husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend and just an all-around good guy who will be missed terribly. He checked in on his mother regularly, if not daily, showing his quiet devotion and care.

The love of his children and grandchildren, the warmth of family and friends, and the deep connection he shared with his wife brought James a joy greater than he ever imagined.

James was preceded in death by his grandfather, David F. Day, Sr.; grandmother, Ruby R. Conley; sister, JoAnn Whitfield; uncles, David Day Jr., Anthony Day, and Shawn Day.

Left to cherish the memories of James, J-Day, Bo Dolla, Big Daddy are his beloved wife and best friend, Andrea Smittie; mother, Francez Bennett; children, James Jr., Tyneia McGill, Maurkeisha Day, Ja’Keila Jones, Zakaria Parker, Jabre Day, Jamela Kindred, Parys Day, Naomi Day and Nejai Day; bonus children, Tiara Smittie and William Lofton; a host of grandchildren; sisters, Johna (Kimberly) Whitfield, Marletta Whitfield, Jamara Whitfield and Morine Whitfield; brothers, John Whitfield, Jayson Day, and James Whitfield Jr.; aunt Christenna Day; uncles Michael Day, Timothy Day and special uncle, Jeffrey (Angela) Day; nieces, Miracle Whitfield and Nigeria Baccus; nephews, Johnathan Whitfield and Jayson Baccus; a host of other nieces and nephews including his brother Jayson’s other children; special cousins, Marrē Barnette and Weehong Day; along with a host of other cousins, family, friends and coworkers.

There just aren’t enough words to express how deeply James will be missed by all or how our hearts break as we realize he will never come through the door, call us or fire up the grill again...