Charlene Gibson Smith

Mrs. Charlene Cleona Gibson Smith, 86, resident of Yemassee Highway near Varnville, wife of LeGrande Smith, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at her home with her family and loved ones near.

Born June 4, 1938, in Hampton County, Mrs. Smith was the daughter of the late Phillip Coy Gibson and Cleona Mixson Gibson. She graduated from Wade Hampton High School in 1956 as the Valedictorian and from Columbia College in 1958. Mrs. Smith was most importantly a homemaker but worked for many years as a substitute teacher in the Hampton County School Districts and will be remembered for her love of educating children and inspiring creative minds. She was an accomplished antique collector with antique businesses for many years. When she was not teaching, educating, inspiring, or playing the piano; she was busy sewing projects, making quilts, making baskets, cooking delicious meals, refinishing furniture, working in the garden, and more with there being no end to her talents and interests.

Mrs. Smith was a devoted member of Sand Hill Baptist Church where she served as the church pianist for over 50 years, taught Adult Sunday School for over 40 years, and was one of the original founders and former director of the Sand Hill Baptist Church PERK (Projects Engaging Retired Keenagers) for seniors for over 35 years. She was known for her love of God and dedication to her church where she inspired people of all ages.

In addition to her husband of 67 years, Mr. Franklin LeGrande Smith, of the home, Mrs. Smith is survived by her two sons, Lloyd Russell "Rusty" Smith (Rhonda) of Hampton and Dwayne Randall "Randy" Smith (Leigh Ann) of Moncks Corner; four adored grandchildren:  Joshua Smith (Courtney), Lee Smith (Amanda), Jarrett Smith (Joan), and Shelby Henderson (Hunter); nine great-grandchildren:  Lilyan Smith, Coy Smith, Willa Smith, Jordan Smith, Christopher Goodwin, Myles Smith, Johanna Smith, Ellery Henderson, and Declan Henderson, and one brother, Rufus Gibson (Frances) of Varnville. She was devoted to and loved her family, enjoying time and sharing a special bond with each of them.

Graveside Services will be 11:30 AM, Friday, February 28, 2025, in the Sand Hill Cemetery, conducted by Rev. Dr. Tommy Kelly.

A visitation will be held from 10 – 11 AM, Friday, February 28, 2025, at the funeral home located at 300 Mulberry St. W., Hampton, SC 29924.

The family requests that those who wish may send memorials to the Sand Hill Cemetery.

Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home is assisting the Smith family during this time.