Ida "Jackie" Smith

Ida Clair Elledge “Jackie” Smith of Springdale, SC, was born December 18, 1925, in Davy, West Virginia, to James Blaine Elledge and Mary Jane Burchette Elledge. She spent her early years in West Virginia before moving in her mid teens to North Wilkesboro, NC, the family’s original homeplace, a place that would always remain close to her heart. Jackie recently celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends. She departed this life peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026. One of eight siblings, she is survived by her beloved sister, Nickie Elledge Crawford.

Named for her paternal grandmother, Ida was lovingly nicknamed “Jackie” by a special uncle early in life. Of all the names she carried, “Nana” may have been her favorite. She had a special affection for babies and young children and treasured her role as grandmother and great grandmother. She is survived by 12 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Jackie was predeceased by her grandson, Drew Smith.

Jackie shared 67 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Herbert Smith, until his passing in 2011. Together they built a large and loving family. She is survived by their five children and spouses: Barbara (Dan) Bolin, Kathy (James) DuBose, Randy (Karen) Smith, Sue (Ray) Marr, and Greg (Stacey) Smith; bonus son Larry Smith; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

She was a longtime member of Cayce United Methodist Church, where she faithfully volunteered with the outreach ministry, God’s Helping Hands, well into her nineties. Jackie also served for many years as a teacher’s aide at Busbee Middle School in Lexington School District Two, where she was known for her dedication and caring spirit.

A child of the Great Depression, Jackie developed a strong will, deep resilience, and practical wisdom that carried her through a century of life. She often referred to herself as “a tough old bird,” a phrase that reflected both her strength and her determination. Yet those closest to her also knew her gentler side, especially the tenderness she showed to babies and little ones, who adored her in return. Jackie took pride in her appearance and was rarely seen without her signature pearls.

She was well known for her hospitality and cooking, especially her beloved banana pudding, pineapple casserole, and apple black walnut cake. Even small acts of kindness reflected her thoughtful nature, including baking cornbread muffins for the pharmacist who delivered her prescriptions.

Jackie also had a memorable and unique talent: she could whistle louder than a freight train without ever putting her fingers in her mouth. When her children heard that whistle echo through the neighborhood, they knew it was time to head home. Even in her final weeks, her spirited whistle could still be heard around the nursing home. She loved sitting in her rocking chair on the back porch, visiting with friends and neighbors who stopped by. She also loved music and never passed up an opportunity to sing, especially if there was a microphone and an audience nearby.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Janie Elrod, our sister in love, for her many years of loving care, devotion, and support to our mother and our family. Your kindness lightened many burdens along the way. We also thank the staff at Wellmore of Lexington, especially K.D., Diana, Courtney, and Alisha, for the compassion, love, and attention they showed Jackie. A special thank you is also extended to our sweet sister, Sue, for the countless hours she devoted to Mom’s care, finances, appointments, needs, and "I sure would like to have..." Your dedication and love have been a gift to our family.  You have done a tremendous job, Sis, and we will be forever indebted to you.

Rest peacefully, Mom. Your strength carried you far, and your work here is done. You do not have to be "a tough old bird" any longer.

Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Cayce United Methodist Church, 1600 12th St., Cayce, SC, with services to follow at 12:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. Interment will follow at Woodridge Memorial Park, 138 Corley Mill Rd., Lexington, SC 29072.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials or donations be directed to God’s Helping Hands, Cayce United Methodist Church, 1600 12th St., Cayce, SC 29033.

Pallbearers will be her eight grandsons: Bill Dial, Wade Dial, James DuBose III, Jordan DuBose, Randall Smith, Lee Marr, Jon Marr, and Newton Smith.