Obituary of Richard Steele Smith

Richard Steele Smith, 83, passed peacefully from his earthly body to be with his loving Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 27, 2021, surrounded by family. Mr. Smith was born in Gastonia, NC on January 27, 1938 to Lindsay and Mildred Smith. He grew up in Winnsboro, SC and graduated from Mount Zion Institute, where he excelled in sports.

He served four years in the United States Air Force and then worked as an air traffic controller at Washington (now Reagan) International Airport. In 1964, the Lord called him to become a teacher.  After earning a bachelor’s degree in social studies, he completed his master’s degree in education at the University of South Carolina.  He also attended Clemson University, earning a certification in Industrial Arts. He taught Social Studies and Industrial Arts at Airport High School until his retirement. He also coached football, track, basketball and wrestling.  Additionally, he served as a referee for football, basketball and baseball for many years. An avid golfer, he enjoyed playing as often as possible with friends and family.

A devoted student of the Scriptures, he was a long-time member of Holland Avenue Baptist Church, where he served on several mission trips.

Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 59 years, Annie (Ann) Dennis Smith; son, Michael Smith (Gayle); grandchildren, Nicholas Oswald, Kristen Smith, Katie Turner (Will), and David Smith. He is also survived by his brother, Jerry Smith of Matthews, NC; a sister, Gail Clapp (David) of Durham, NC; nieces, Sharon Morris Fairleigh (Mark) and Stacy Smith Furr (Rob) of Monroe, NC. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Tracey S. Oswald; and his sister, Rachel Morris.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 30, 2021 at 2:00pm at Holland Avenue Baptist Church, 801 12^th Street, Cayce, with the Reverends Dow Welsh and Charles Wilson officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00-1:45pm prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at Southland Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holland Avenue Baptist Church.