Obituary of James "Wayne" Smith

James “Wayne” Smith, beloved and devoted husband, father, and “PePa” to four grandchildren, died July 31, 2023 surrounded by his loving family at his Lake Murray home in Lexington, SC.

Wayne was born September 15, 1946 in Denmark, SC, to James Marion Smith and Carolyn Hightower Smith. He graduated from Denmark-Olar High School in 1965 where he was Vice President of his senior class, active in The Double Quartet, and voted Most Athletic by his classmates. He played football and baseball for Denmark- Olar and broke a few school records. He caught the attention of the New York Yankees and was drafted to play for the minor leagues out of Sarasota Florida for a short time. He served in the SC National Guard and worked for Southern Bell (AT&T Communications) until he retired in 2000. He married his high school sweetheart, Ann Chassereau in 1968 and later moved to the Irmo area where they raised their two children, Kim and Jason. 

A man of many passions, Wayne enjoyed playing golf with his buddies, painting the beauty he saw in nature, collecting Civil War artifacts, hunting, fishing and so much more. Family weeks at Edisto were particularly one of Wayne’s favorite pastimes. After retirement, he relished his years with Ann at their Lake Murray home, where they hosted many family gatherings. He took every opportunity to love and support his wife, children and grandchildren.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Ann of the home; his daughter, Kim Smith; his son, Jason Smith (Mindy); his brothers, Larry Smith (Brenda) and Don Smith (Renee); and grandchildren, McKennan Ward, Parker Ward, Laynie Smith, and Connor Smith. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 3^rd from 6pm - 8pm at Thompson Funeral Home, 4720 Augusta Rd., Lexington, SC.

A graveside service will be on held Friday, August 4^th at 2:00 pm at Denmark Cemetery on Church Street, Denmark, SC 29042.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The National Kidney Foundation, The American Heart Association, or a Charity of your choice.