Gail Hope Brazell Smith

As the melody of life fades away, Gail Brazell Smith, a remarkable soul who embodied the spirit and joys of life, has bid us farewell.  Gail passed away in Manor Lake Assisted in Woodstock, GA, just a few days shy of her 88th birthday.

Preceded in death by her devoted husband and soulmate, William “Willie” Harold Smith, she is survived by her eldest son, Randy Smith (spouse Mary Jane Smith) of Woodstock, GA; her son Kemp Smith (spouse Kelly Smith) of Spartanburg, SC; and her daughter Karen Smith Little (spouse David Little) of Landrum, SC.

Gail was a loving grandmother to six grandchildren:  Ashley Brooks, Amanda Stonesifer, Hope Smith, Wade Smith, Skyler Smith, and Justin Bowman.  She was also a cherished great-grandmother to five great-grandchildren:  Raegan Brooks, Beau Brooks, Mattox Stonesifer, Avery Stonesifer, and the most recent addition, Ridley Smith.

Born amd raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina, she was a graduate of Spartanburg High School.  As high school sweethearts, Willie and Gail married in December 1957,  just before the Orange Bowl in which Willie played for Clemson.

Gail’s presence in the community extended far and wide.  She actively participated in various roles, from being a dedicated team mom for football, baseball, and cheerleading, to serving as the PTA Treasurer and President for her children.  She also took on the important responsibility of organizing high school reunions for her graduating class, ensuring that classmates were able to reconnect and reminisce over the years.

In addition to her community involvement, Gail had many passions in life.  She had a keen eye for antiques and spent countless hours collecting unique pieces that brought character and beauty into her home.  Gail and her husband shared a love for travel, exploring new destinations and creating cherished memories together.  This often came along with them traveling for Clemson games, where they both had devout levels of orange blood in the veins of their fandom.  However, this was still unmatched to her immense admiration for Elvis Presley:  her lifelong music icon (they even sharing a birth year).

She may have left the building, but her memory and the echoes of her vibrant presence will forever remain in our hearts.

The family will receive friends from 10:00-10:45 a.m., Monday, May 22, 2023 at Bobo Funeral Chapel.  A graveside service will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Tryon United Methodist Church, 195 New Market Road, Tryon, NC 28782.

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