James Thomas (Tom) Smith

James Thomas "Tom" Smith, 75, of Hartsville, South Carolina, passed away at his home on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Tom was born in Anderson, South Carolina, the son of the late Charlie A. Smith and Hilda B. Smith. He graduated from Miami Norland Senior High School in 1968 and went on to serve his country as a Communications Center Specialist in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972. During his service, he was stationed in Tripoli, Libya. After completing his military service, Tom pursued higher education at the University of Southern Mississippi, earning a Bachelor of Science degree magna cum laude in 1976 and a Master of Education degree in 1980. He was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society in recognition of his academic achievement. Tom began his professional career as a high school English teacher and later became a high school principal. He then transitioned into the field of nuclear safety, working with various nuclear power plants across the country. Eventually, he returned to Hartsville and became the longtime owner of the Hartsville Skating Arena, where he built a welcoming space for families and young people for nearly 30 years before retiring. He was a regular attendee of New Providence Baptist Church for as long as his health allowed. Tom enjoyed working outside, watching westerns, and spending time with his family. He was the kind of person who would do anything he could for others, but never expected anything in return. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, deep loyalty, and enduring love for those closest to him. Surviving are his wife of 28 years, Mary Munn Smith; his sons, Joshua Smith (Abigail) and Tucker Smith; his siblings, Mary Thompson (Bill), Barbara Blackstock (Richard), Joseph Smith (Gloria), and Elizabeth Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Annette Smith Davis. A memorial service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 6:30 PM at New Providence Baptist Church. The family will receive friends beginning at 5:30 at the church. The Directors of Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home are honored to be serving the Smith family.

James Thomas (Tom) Smith

April 11, 1950 - May 1, 2025