Back up first!
From a copy just go into table design and delete the desired field.  You don't even have to empty it first.

Be aware that there is no going back once you say "yes" to the about to delete question.

Can I ask why you are adding and deleting fields this way?  That may be an indication of need to redesign you tables.
BTW - the size of your data is not out of line for the number of records depending on how your tables are set up.

Once you do the delete do a Compact & Repair to reclaim the space saved.

Thanks! worked perfectly.

Why was I adding and deleting fields this way?  I was thinking that by eliminating the data first, it would be easier to delete the field. Can't explain my brain...