Richard Dennis Smith

Richard Dennis Smith, born on December 28, 1952, in Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully at his home in Greenville, South Carolina, on February 2, 2025. He was the youngest of five children born to William and Victoria (Landry)Smith.

Richard graduated from Lincoln High School in Portland, where he was recognized for his exceptional basketball skills resulting in being named MVP and other All-Star recognitions- on several occasions. He continued his education at Mount Hood Community College, majoring in English. His passion for basketball led him to play semi-professionally overseas. Even later in life, he remained active in the sport, participating in the Senior League in Portland and, after 2024, the 55+ basketball league in Greenville.

Beyond basketball, Richard was an avid swimmer and bicyclist. He built strong connections throughout his life, forming lasting friendships with colleagues at UPS(Portland) before retiring in 2015 after 31 years. Richard met no strangers and did not hesitate to tell others about his relationship with God since relocating with his wife, Sharon, to South Carolina. After moving to South Carolina, he organized, played and mentored on basketball teams for 55+.He was respected and admired by his fellow teammates whether on the court or off the court.

Richard’s smile, deep voice, no nonsense standards and love for jazz music was evidence of his joy and happiness. He found such pleasure in landscaping-keeping the lawn manicured, the hedges trimmed, watching and attending sporting events.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, William and Victoria Smith, his brothers, Michael and Charles (Valerie), and his beloved German Shepherd, Scorpio. He is survived by his devoted wife, Dr. Sharon Kelly W. Smith; his children, Chamara Smith, Richella Smith of Seattle (Washington) and William Michael Johnson of Phoenix (Arizona); his sisters, Barbara Smith and Gloria Smith of Portland; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was affectionately known as "Papa Rich" to Patience (10), Blessing (10), and Grace (8) of Seattle.

Richard was a member of Vancouver Baptist Church in Portland, Oregon (Dr. Henessee) where he was baptized. After relocating to Greenville, SC, he and Sharon joined Love Story Church (Dr. John Gray).

A Funeral Service to honor the life of Richard will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Community Baptist Church (103 Burton St.), at 12pm. He will lie in state one hour prior to the service. Burial will be held at a later date during a private family memorial. Viewing will be on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 1pm to 7pm at Avery's Memorial Chapel. The service will be live streamed on Avery's Memorial Chapel's Facebook page.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard Dennis Smith, please visit our floral store.