With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of John Timothy "Tim" Smith, 75, of Columbia, SC, formerly of Turbeville, SC, an Army Veteran, who passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

Life Reflections

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at the day, and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.          ~II Timothy 4:7-8~

A JOURNEY BEGINS

John "Tim" Smith

John "Timothy" Smith, affectionately known as "Tim," was born on June 8, 1951, to the late Ida Mae Smith Knight. He was lovingly reared by the late John and Francis G. Rush. Throughout his life, he remained devoted to his family, his faith, and his country.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Ida Mae Smith Knight; his brother, Kenneth Smith; his three adopted sisters, Rosa Mae Davis, Dora Melvins, and Olivia Jackson; and his two special cousins, Prince Edward Smith and John Stanley Burgess, who were reared alongside him as brothers.

EDUCATION AND CHRISTIAN JOURNEY

Tim was a proud graduate of Walker Gamble High School in New Zion, South Carolina. At an early age, he joined Jordan Chapel A.M.E. Church in Olanta, South Carolina. He later transferred his membership to Hickory Grove A.M.E. Church, where he worshipped and accepted Christ as his personal Savior.

Tim was also a member of Oakland Lodge No. 337.

A LIFE OF SERVICE

At the age of 18, Tim was drafted into the United States Army, where he served during the Vietnam War. Following the war, he continued his military career, faithfully serving his country for a total of 27 years. His distinguished service included serving during the Persian Gulf War.

Tim's commitment to the United States Army reflected his dedication, courage, and willingness to serve and protect the people of this great nation. His military service was an important part of his life and a source of pride throughout his years.

After retiring from military service and returning to civilian life, Tim worked for several companies, most recently W. Lee Flowers, until his health began to decline. In 2008, his family made the difficult decision to relocate him from his home in Turbeville, South Carolina, to a Life Care nursing facility in Columbia, South Carolina.

In 2010, Tim became a resident of the Dorn VA Community Care Center, where he continued to find comfort and companionship. He especially enjoyed attending Sunday church services and Bible study, listening to his favorite gospel music, (Lee Williams, Harvey Watkins and Slim and the Supreme Angels, playing bingo, watching the Green Bay Packers (He was a die-hard fan) and spending time talking with his fellow veterans, whom he affectionately regarded as his military family.

A JOURNEY COMPLETED

John "Tim" Smith answered his final call on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Lexington Medical Center in Columbia, South Carolina. Though his earthly journey has ended, the memories of his life, his service, and the love he shared will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

THOSE LEFT TO CHERISH HIS MEMORY

Tim leaves to cherish his precious memories: his only daughter, Chakonas Smith (Angelor Brown) of Hemingway, South Carolina; three beloved grandchildren, Charitey Smith and Braylon Brown both of Hemingway, South Carolina; one devoted sister, Evangelist Althelia (Albertis) Wilson of Columbia, South Carolina.

He is also survived by three closely knit brothers: Emanuel (Connie) Smith and Arthur (Gail) Knight, Jr. both of Columbia, South Carolina, and Leronal Smith of Kingstree, South Carolina; one adopted brother, Gary (Cynthia) Knight of New Zion, South Carolina; two special nephews, Darrius Wilson and Arthur "AJ" Knight; two special nieces, Raven Knight of Columbia, South Carolina, and Brittany (Girard) King of Waldorf, Maryland.

He also leaves: three loving aunts, Betty Knight of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Mildred Cunningham of Raleigh, North Carolina and Betty A. Cunningham of Houston, Texas; two uncles, Reverend Malachi Smith of Las Vegas, Nevada, and James Cunningham of Lake City, South Carolina; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

Among those who held a special place in his heart were John Lopez and Mr. Clyde Hayes of the Dorn VA Community Care Center and Reverend Yvonne Barnes who faithfully visited him.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND SPECIAL THANKS

The family of John "Tim" Smith extends heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation to the dedicated caregivers and medical professionals who provided care, compassion, and support throughout his journey.

Special thanks are extended to the staff of the Dorn VA Community Care Center, Second Floor, Saluda Section; Lexington Medical Center, Third Floor; Regency Hospital in Florence, South Carolina, Second Floor; and Millennium Post-Acute Rehabilitation, Second Floor.

Your kindness, dedication, and compassionate service will always be remembered and deeply appreciated by the family.

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

Though Tim's earthly journey has come to an end, his legacy of service, faith, family, and friendship will continue to live on. His life was a testament to perseverance, commitment, and love. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all whose lives he touched.

Rest peacefully, John "Tim" Smith. Your service is complete, your journey is fulfilled, and your memory will live on forever.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Kingstree, SC. 843-354-2292 .