Martha Laura Smith Darnell

Martha Laura Smith Darnell, 84, of Cayce, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Born on January 7, 1941, in Conway, South Carolina, Martha was the daughter of the late Leonard Vaughn Smith and Audrey Lee Huggins. She was also the beloved older sister of the late Leonard V. Smith, Jr. and the late Henry Neal Smith, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories. A proud graduate of Williston-Elko High School, Martha retired from the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs after a long and dedicated career. She remained in touch with many of her colleagues for the 25+ years that followed, a testament to the strong relationships she built during her time there.

Martha married Mack Blane Whittle in 1957, and together they had two children: Melanie Whittle Anderson (Wally) of Lexington and Mack Blane Whittle, Jr. of Cayce. Though their paths eventually took different directions, they remained connected through the family they shared. Martha later married James E. Darnell, with whom she shared many happy years until his passing in 2019. She was affectionately known as “Grandmama” to her grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life: Whitney Smith Day (Dustin) of West Columbia, Billy H. Smith, Jr. (Kayla) of Lexington, Mack Blane Whittle III "Trey" of Blackville, Walter R. Anderson Jr. (Katie) of Houston, Sarah Whittle Chavis (Jeremy) of Neeses, Haley Whittle Klimek (Mason) of Wagner, and Bailey Whittle, also of Wagner. She also leaves behind numerous great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy.

Martha's home was always open to anyone in need—whether family, friend, or stranger. She never turned anyone away who needed a place to stay or a meal to eat. She was known as a talented cook and took great joy in preparing meals for her family, always happy to take special requests from her children and grandchildren. She loved planning family gatherings, often beginning her holiday menus weeks in advance. Her extensive collection of Southern Living cookbooks was legendary, and she could find any recipe from any year at a moment’s notice.

Martha also believed passionately in staying connected. She was known for sending thoughtful handwritten notes and cards, checking in with a phone call “just because,” and dropping by to visit if she happened to be nearby. She kept in touch with friends from every stage of her life, and her ability to remember names, faces, and personal stories was unmatched. Her warmth, humor, and devotion to her family and friends will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family is especially grateful for the kindness of her dear friend and neighbor of nearly 40 years, Beth Brown, who checked in on Martha often and was always ready to lend a hand whenever it was needed.

A visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 19, at Barr-Price Funeral Home in Lexington, South Carolina, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place afterward at Aynor Cemetery in Aynor, South Carolina.

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