Herman Smith Jr

Herman Smith Jr. passed away peacefully at home on February 18, at the age of 89, surrounded

by his loving family.

Born on July 21, 1936, in Grays, South Carolina, Herman was the son of the late Herman Smith

Sr. and Lillian Cook Smith Griffin. At just 19 years old, Herman experienced the tragic loss of

his father, a turning point that left him as the man of the household, shouldering the

responsibility of caring for his mother and siblings at such an early age. From that time forward,

Herman became a man known for his discipline, resilience, and complete selflessness—qualities

that defined his life.

Herman pursued his education at Newberry College before earning a Bachelor of Science in

Economics from Florida State Christian College. Throughout his professional life, he

demonstrated strong leadership, integrity, and a tireless work ethic. Herman began his career in

the finance industry and ultimately started his own finance company. He later leveraged this

experience to establish and operate several retail businesses until his first retirement. In his

second career, Herman served as the Plan Review and Commercial Construction Inspector for

Jasper County, where he faithfully worked until his final retirement 15 years later.

Herman was preceded in death by his two sons, Herman Doyle Smith and Dwight Edward Smith

and his brother Leon A. Smith.

He is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 68 years, Jacqueline Jones Smith of

Beaufort; his two daughters, Cecile Smith Longaker (Dail) of Columbia, and Joni Smith Stokes

(JJ) of Beaufort. He is also survived by his beloved granddaughters: Katherine Longaker of

Charlotte; Anna Longaker McKenna (David) of Greenville; Reilly Stokes DuBois (Michael) of

Beaufort; and his grandson, Riddock Stokes of Beaufort. He is further survived by his great-

grandson, Tripp DuBois.

The bond Herman shared with his four grandchildren was especially dear to him, and their time

together brought him immense joy. He took a deep and personal interest in each of their lives,

offering unwavering support, steady guidance, and constant encouragement. Through his

devotion to family and his steadfast faith in God, Herman leaves behind a legacy of love and a

model of manhood that will be cherished for generations to come.

Herman is also survived by his siblings: James A. Smith (Martha), Wayne C. Smith (Sandra) and

Linda Smith Laliberte (Lee) and brother-in-law Voyle W. Jones (Mary).

The family would like to extend special love and gratitude to Sissy VanSant, whom Herman

adored, and who provided immeasurable comfort and love as his in-home nurse. The family also

shares heartfelt gratitude for Herman’s devoted caretakers, Ty’Kerria Sterling, Shontay Wright,

and Shanique Stevenson, for their compassionate care and unwavering support. They also wish

to thank his neighbors, Jennifer and Caroline Campbell, whose constant visits, kindness, and

love for the Smith family have meant more than words can express. They truly feel like family.

With deep gratitude and love, the family extends sincere appreciation to Pastor Barry W. Owens

of Trinity Bible Church in Charleston, South Carolina, for his faithful spiritual leadership, for the

constant comfort and brotherhood he provided to Herman, and for his steadfast conviction in

proclaiming the salvation found in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Funeral services for Herman were private.

Copeland Funeral Service is assisting the Smith family with arrangements.