Joan Dennis Smith

Joan Dennis Smith, 86, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025. She was born on March 7, 1939 in Columbia, SC, and is the daughter of the late Clinton G. and Rhodie Dawkins Dennis. Joan was the youngest of 11 children and was the last to cross into eternal rest. 

Joan retired from State of South Carolina after many years of dedicated service at the Division of Motor Vehicles. She was a long time member of St. David Lutheran Church and enjoyed daily devotions and spending time in prayer. Joan had a generous heart and loved her family dearly. Joan, better known as “Mema,” found so much joy in spending time with her family and watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. She cherished every moment that she got with her family. 

She is survived by her devoted and faithful husband of 68 years, Robert Smith; her daughters, Glenda Rogers (Kevin) and Susan Latham (Phil); and her grandchildren, Brandon (Jessie) Coates, Tyler (Sarah) Coates, Ethan (Elouise) Rogers, Avery Rogers, Jared (Chloe) Rogers, Ashley (Darriel) Dickerson, and Brent (Juliana) Latham; as well as eleven great-grandchildren. 

The family will receive friends from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at St. David Lutheran Church 132 St. Davids Church Road, West Columbia, SC 29170.  A service of celebration will be held at 11:00 am at the church. A private burial service will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. David Lutheran Church. Barr-Price Funeral Home and Crematorium, Lexington Chapel, is assisting the family.

The family wishes to thank Lexington Medical Center, Oakleaf Village of Lexington, and Pastor Greg Brown for their support and care.  

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