March 24, 1950 ~ July 15, 2025
In the words of Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Gale Smith, born in Texas City, TX, on March 24th, 1950, was a woman who made an unforgettable impact on all those lucky enough to cross her path. Gale’s life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and the joy she found in serving others. She thrived in her career with the Department of Corrections, where she committed herself to making a difference. But it was in her personal life, where she truly shone, as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.
Gale was a woman of many talents and accolades. Crowned Miss Laurens 1969, and even winning the swimsuit competition at The South Carolina Beauty Pageant in 1970, Gale’s beauty was just the tip of the iceberg. Her true beauty lay in her heart, which was evident in her tireless dedication to her community through her active service in the Red Bank Baptist Church. Gale served as the head of Women’s Ministry, taught Sunday School, participated in the choir, and sung for countless events, touching the lives of all those she encountered.
Gale leaves behind a legacy of love and service. She is survived by her devoted husband of 46 years, Dulon Smith; loving daughter, Kim (Benji) Hook; her adoring grandchildren, Tate (Haley) Hook and Caleigh Hook; great-granddaughter, Blakely Hook; her siblings, Ralph Henry (Juanita) Williams and Linda Sue Williams (Joe) Pitts; and her sister-in-law, Marjorie Swofford; along with nieces, Anna Monaghan and Kristen Pitts; and nephews, Kevin Williams and Nicholas Williams. She was predeceased by her parents, Frank Henry Williams and Eula Mae Harris Williams, and her brother, Frank Vernon Williams.
To quote another wise woman, Helen Keller, “What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” Gale’s love, spirit, and joy will continue to live on in all those she touched.
Red Bank Baptist Women's Ministry 