Michael "Mike" A. Smith

Michael “Mike” A. Smith went to be with the Lord on the evening of December 19th, 2025, at the age of seventy. 

He was born in Dallas, Texas to Marvin and Glennia Smith, as the oldest of four children. He attended the University of Texas and would go on to complete his degree at the University of South Carolina. 

Mike spent a number of years enjoying the Colorado mountains as a head wrangler at Lost Valley Ranch. While there, he met the love of his life, Kay, and after marrying, they settled in the Columbia, South Carolina area and had their only child, Katie.

In his almost twenty-five years in South Carolina, Mike touched the lives of people everywhere he went, whether at the workplace, through his hobbies of golf and scuba diving, or as an active member of his church family. 

He eventually retired to the North Carolina mountains, where he enjoyed the beautiful nature and wildlife from his own backyard. It didn’t take him long to make more friendships in the local mountain communities. 

Despite battling ongoing leukemia and related complications, Mike enjoyed his last months with friends and family and could often be found at the nearby golf course. 

Mike was first and foremost a follower of Christ, and his walk with God shaped how he lived his life. His deep love of the Lord was evidenced in the way he treated those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and a gentle demeanor. 

Mike is survived by his wife of almost thirty-five years, Catherine “Kay” Smith, and beloved daughter, Catherine “Katie” Smith, as well as his two remaining siblings, Glenn and Richard. His family will remember him as a wonderful husband, loving father, and wise big brother. 

Mike often joked that when he passed, he didn’t need a “big fancy ceremony”, but to simply remember him fondly. Following cremation, there will be a few small gatherings to celebrate his life, the details of which will be announced in the coming weeks. 

If you would like to honor Mike’s memory, the family asks that you consider making a small donation to the SECU House, a non-profit place for patients and their families to stay while they undergo medical treatments. For Mike and his family, SECU House was a home away from home during some of the most difficult times of their lives. 

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the wonderful medical staff and various personnel who supported them throughout Mike’s many years of cancer treatments. 

Kay and Katie are grateful for the prayers and support of friends and family. Mike is truly missed.

Funeral arrangements will be provided at a later date.

Online condolences may be shared at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin and Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Smith family.

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