Obituary of Ronald Cleveland Smith

Ronald Cleveland Smith, affectionately known as "Ronnie" and "Pepa", passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026. Born on May 31, 1948, in Charlotte, NC, he was the son of the late Virgil C. and Bessie McFarland Smith.

Ronnie, a resident of Lugoff, South Carolina, was a man of many talents. He was a respected contractor and the proud owner and operator of Palmetto Residential Builders. His passion for building was only surpassed by his love for his family and friends. He was a member of Hope Baptist Church in Columbia, S.C., and Ronnie found solace and strength in his faith. His hobbies included fishing and woodworking, activities that he often shared with his loved ones. His family was his pride and joy, and he often said that his greatest achievement was being a faithful husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. His faithful buddy, Remington, will miss his presence dearly.

Ronnie was the beloved husband of Carol Branham Smith, to whom he was married since August 12, 1972. The love they shared was inspirational and served as a beacon of hope and unity for their family. 

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Carol B. Smith; daughter, Kelly Arledge (Trampes) of Camden; son, Jason Smith (Lauren) of Elgin; brothers, Jimmy Smith of Camden and Dean Smith of Mexico; grandchildren, Clay Worley (Kaitlynn), Emilee Hinson (Ricky), Wyatt Arledge, Millee Arledge, Ty Smith, Kyle Smith, Andrew Arledge (Amanda); and 7 great-grandchildren.

A service to celebrate Ronnie's life will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Powers Funeral Home.  The family will receive friends Tuesday 4:00-6:00 p.m. prior to the service at Powers Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Operation Christmas Child.

2 Timothy 4:7 KJV - I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith