Eugene (Gene) Everett Smith

Gene (Eugene Everett) Smith, born July 29, 1956 in Hampton General Hospital, passed away suddenly but peacefully December 19th, 2025. A lifelong resident of the Grays community, Gene owned and operated Smith’s Masonry for over 50 years. Through his business Gene built so much more than beautiful chimneys and homes; he built trust, relationships, and a reputation for integrity and craftsmanship. His strong work ethic and pride in doing things right were evident in every straight row and every interaction. Gene epitomized his infamous slogan - “We Lay Anything”- by laying the foundation for his amazing legacy of hard work and generosity. He laid his hand on the shoulder of anyone in need. Because he never met a stranger, he often laid his table for people from all over South Carolina and Georgia, gathering about dark-thirty to enjoy Grays BBQ, boiled peanuts, and sometimes borrowed crabs. His love for life, love for others, and love for a good time united so many in their love for him and his family. Gene never hesitated to share his time, his skills, and his knowledge with others.

A devoted husband, Gene shared over forty-six years of marriage with his wife, Karen. He was a proud father to his daughter, Tina, and son, Kevin (Joy). His greatest reward was found in being “Papa” to his six beloved grandchildren, Zachary, Brooks, Anamarie, Rebecca, Sawyer, Shepard, and one great-grandchild, Ryan who brought endless laughter and purpose to his life.

Gene was also the kind of big brother everyone hopes to have. Brenda (Gary) Perkins, Margaret, Tony and Al knew they could always count on him for advice (whether they wanted it or not), encouragement, or simply a listening ear. He helped watch over his brothers and sisters with a caring heart, always ready to help, tease, or step in when they needed him most. He treated his sisters-in-law, Judy (Robert) Niedzielski and Carol Baker, with the same love and affection.

Gene attended Grays Consolidated School until its closing and completed his education at Jasper County High.

Gene was more than an employer to many, including Marion and Issac Major. Issac and Gene worked side by side for more than 30 years.

Gene was a deacon and lifelong member of Beaver Dam Baptist Church where he kept the back row warm for anyone who might be in need of a seat and helped everyone keep track of when the race would start that Sunday afternoon.

Gene was predeceased by his mother, Edna, father, Everett, longtime friend and business partner Ben Joe Smith and his first cousin and dear friend, Keith Smith, as well his mother-in-law, Anna Bennett, sister-in-law, Cheryl Griner, brother-in-law, Thomas Baker and nephews Brooks and Derek Griner.

Though his hands now rest, through love and loyalty, Gene laid the foundation of a life well lived for all of his family and friends to build on.

The family will receive friends beginning at 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm, Friday, December 26, 2025 at their home. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am (Gene wouldn't want us burning daylight), Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Beaver Dam Baptist Church Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Beaver Dam Baptist Church.