Jesse Cleveland Smith Jr.

Sumter, SC…. Jesse Cleveland Smith, Jr., a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, passed away on December 23rd, 2025, after an illness. He was born on August 5th, 1949, in Greenville, South Carolina, to the late Jesse C. Smith, Sr. and Ruth Taylor Smith.

Jesse grew up in Greenville and graduated from Parker High School, class of 1966. He went on to attend North Greenville College when it was a two-year institution, graduating with the class of 1970, and later earned his degree from Baptist College of Charleston (now Charleston Southern University) in 1981.

While attending Furman University in 1971, Jesse made the decision to enlist in the United States Air Force – a service he valued deeply. His military career took him to many parts of the world, including deployments in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Throughout his 21 years of dedicated service, Jesse was recognized for his leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty. He received numerous awards and commendations, including the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. His dedication to serving his country reflected the integrity and strong moral character for which he was known. After more than two decades of honorable service, Jesse retired from the Air Force at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina.

Jesse was preceded in death by his loving wife, Wanda Louise Ahart Smith, and his grandson, Tristan Michael Smith. He is survived by his daughter, Christy (Randy) Smith-Waters, and his son, Charles (Tammy) Smith, both of Sumter, South Carolina; three grandchildren, Jordan Smith and Justin Smith of Sumter, and Jessica Smith of Panama City, Florida; and six great-grandchildren: Payton L. Smith, Davina H. Pettaway, Demi J. Smith, A'mir D. Smith, Paisley E. Smith, and Liam J. Smith. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Vincent (Kathy) Smith of North Myrtle Beach; two nephews, Taylor (Alyssa) Smith and Harrison (Lydia) Smith; and one niece, Kendall Smith.

Jesse's loved ones will remember him for his sense of humor, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to family and faith. He was a man of quiet strength who led by example, always ready to lend a helping hand to others. From an early age, Jesse was baptized and remained an active, faithful member of the churches in his community. His faith shaped his life and guided his actions, and he took great joy in serving both God and country.

Beyond his service, Jesse had a deep love for football – whether attending local games in person or cheering on his favorite teams from home, he rarely missed a game. He also cherished time spent with his family, especially gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and food. To his family and friends, Jesse will always be remembered as a loyal husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and true patriot.

A service honoring the life of Jesse will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm at Calvary Church in Greenville 1500 W. Parker Rd., Greenville, SC, 29617.

A graveside service with full military honors will follow at 3:00 pm at Woodlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.

You may go to www.bullockfuneralhome.com and sign the family's guest book.

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home of Sumter for the arrangements.