Jimmie Rodgers Smith, Sr.

Mr. Jimmie Smith, known to his grandchildren as Ole Pa, of 17927 Grays Hwy., Varnville SC died Saturday December 9, 2023 after an extended stay in the Savannah Memorial Hospital followed by a short stay at The Friends of Caroline Cottage (Hospice).

Jimmie was born April 28, 1938 in Jasper County, a son of the late Iva O. and Cole L. Smith of Grays.  He graduated from the Grays Highschool and started working immediately at Westinghouse in Hampton.  Soon after, he enlisted in the army where he spent the most part of his 3 years in Connecticut returning to Westinghouse until retiring around 1998.

Surviving is his wife of 64 years, Mary Alice, his son Jimmie Smith II (Sherry), his Grandson Cole Smith, his Granddaughter Jessica Gifford (Branham), his Great Grandson Wilder Gifford, and his Sister Susan Campbell.  He was preceded in death by his son Leonard (Lenny), his Brothers, Jack Lamar and Owen, and his Sister Iva Lee Polk.

Jimmie was known as a hard worker.  He worked at Westinghouse each day and farmed/gardened each afternoon and weekends.  His favorite pastimes were hunting, fishing, and attending family reunions.  He loved spending time with his Grandchildren teaching them the art of raising rabbits, milking a cow, and how to garden.

Graveside services will be 2:00 pm Tuesday, December 12, 2023 in the Grimes Cemetery near Grays conducted by Rev. Heyward Evans and directed by Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home in Hampton.  Visitation will be immediately following the service at the cemetery.