Joyce Ann Smith, 72, of Lexington, South Carolina, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 14, 2025. Born on November 20, 1952, in Columbia, South Carolina, she lived a life rooted in love, faith, and quiet strength.

Joyce dedicated many years of service as a Human Resource Manager for the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, where she later retired. She was a devoted member of St. David’s Lutheran Church and cherished the community she found there. Outside of work and church, Joyce found joy in watching Lifetime movies, shopping, the occasional trips to the slot machines, and anything related to Elvis. Above all, she treasured her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were among her greatest sources of pride and happiness.

She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Thoughtful, caring, and supportive, Joyce touched the hearts of many—often without even realizing just how much she meant to others.

Joyce is reunited in heaven with her husband of 20 years, William “W.D.” Drayton Smith; her parents, Macey Gaston and Annie Roland (Gaston); her brother, William “Clifford” Floyd; her sisters, Mary Wagener and Linda Garrett; and her daughters, Mary Elizabeth Neeley and Rhonda Bradshaw Parker.

She is lovingly survived by her brother, Macey “Jr.” Gaston (wife Darlene); her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Heather McCormick (Tyler) with children Ryleigh and River; Anthony Parker (Kari) with children Mitchell, Theodore, and Jayden; Adam Parker with son Jacob Parker. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, step children, step grandchildren, step great-grandchildren, and many dear friends whose lives were brightened by her presence. 

A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. and a graveside service at St. David’s Lutheran Church, 132 St. David’s Church Road, West Columbia, SC 29170.

Joyce’s legacy of kindness, love, and quiet strength will live on in every heart she touched. 

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from the evil one. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.