Ms. Joycelyn Renee Smith

Ms. Joycelyn Renee “Joy” Smith, 72, beloved daughter, sister, colleague and friend, peacefully transitioned on June 25, 2024, in Columbia, South Carolina. Born on June 20, 1952, she was the first of three children, blessed to the union of the late William Telford Smith and Mildred Lindsey Gaffney Smith in Columbia, South Carolina. Joy excelled academically throughout her life, graduating with honors from Dreher High School in the Class of 1970. She furthered her education at Michigan State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging Engineering with highest honors, graduating Cum Laude in the Class of 1974. Joy was recognized in Who's Who Among American High School Students and Who's Who Among American University and College Students for her outstanding academic achievements. Throughout her career, Joy made significant contributions in the fields of Engineering, Technical Writing, and Information Technology. She began her professional journey at Dow Chemical in Midland, Michigan. Later, she took a position at NCR and stayed for over ten years before moving on to SCANA Corporation. Joy’s last position was at Teradata Corporation, Raleigh, North Carolina, as an Information Architect and member of the management team. In 2018, she retired from Teradata Corporation. Her leadership and expertise left an indelible mark on those she worked with and inspired. Known for her passion for mentoring and empowering underserved women and families, Joy's beautiful spirit extended beyond her professional achievements. She found pleasure in reading, cooking, knitting, and crocheting, hobbies she pursued with great enthusiasm. Joy's love of music led her to become a valued member of the Columbia Chorale Society, reflecting her diverse interests and love for the arts. In addition to her parents, Joy was preceded in death by a sister, Karen Marveen Smith who transitioned at six years of age. She leaves to cherish precious memories, her loving sister, Sonia Felita Smith of Columbia, SC; her aunt Shirley Gaffney Crawford of Nashville, TN; her lifelong friend Cheryl Powell of Columbia, SC, and a host of cousins and friends who cherished her deeply. Joycelyn Renee “Joy” Smith will be remembered for her intelligence, warmth, and generosity. She touched the lives of many and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and perseverance. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to The IBU Foundation, 183B King Street, Charleston, SC 29401 or Heifer International, at www.heifer.org in her memory. Rest in peace, our dear Joy. Your light will continue to shine in our hearts forever.

Ms. Joycelyn Renee Smith

June 20, 1952 - June 25, 2024