David G. Smith Sr.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of David Ginn Smith, Sr., age 72, of Columbia, who passed away peacefully in his home on May 22, 2026.

David was born on February 7, 1954, in Columbia to Charles and Audrey Smith. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend to many. Through his journey of 72 years, he touched many lives with his art, witty humor, and congenial attitude.

One of David’s most treasured hobbies was building and flying free-flight scale model airplanes. In 1976, David helped to establish Palmetto Aeromodelers, a hobbyist group that revived interest in building and flying scale and non-scale rubber-band-powered models. David had many of his plans published internationally in hobby magazines and even had an exhibit at the South Carolina State Museum featuring his models.

David was a talented lifelong artist who enjoyed sketching live musicians and could often be found around town capturing performers in the moment. From murals to mailboxes, David viewed the world through a distinctly creative lens and strove to make any space he entered just a little more beautiful. When not pouring into his artistic works, he enjoyed gardening and spent many hours tending to “Grandy’s Garden.”

One of David’s greatest joys was caring for his grandchildren. Whether it was school pickups, ballgames, or simply being there whenever they needed him, he gave them unwavering love, patience, and encouragement. Affectionately known by them as ‘Grandy,' his presence brought comfort and countless happy memories that will stay with them for a lifetime.

David beamed with pride for his children, David, Jr. and Rebecca. He could often be heard doting on his son and what a hard worker and great father he was to his children, and how proud he was of his daughter and son-in-law for their musical journey as the duo Admiral Radio. David loved his family with all his heart and nothing brought him greater joy than spending simple moments with those he loved most.

He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

David is survived by his loving children, David Ginn Smith, Jr. (Breanne), and Rebecca McCoy Smith (Coty), and his grandchildren, Charlotte Smith, and David Ginn Smith, III, who were the lights of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Baruch Smith, Jr. and Audrey Ginn Smith Brown, and his brother, Charles Baruch Smith, III.

A memorial service and celebratory art show will be held on Thursday, June 18 at 2 PM at Downtown Church at 2030 Gregg Street, Columbia, SC, 29201. The family invites all who knew and loved David to join them in honoring his memory by attending “The Art Of Living: A Memorial Service and Art Show Celebrating The Life of David Ginn Smith, Sr.” Attire is casual. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages making a donation to Friends of Sesqui in David’s memory.

JP Holley Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith Family.