W. Lawrence Smith

Willie Lawrence Smith, 85, affectionately known as “Pop” by many, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on January 17, 2026. You may know him from his 57 years as one “S” in “S&S Auto Supply”, as a member of Faith Lutheran Evangelical Church, or from a B-L Panthers football or baseball game.

He was born January 21, 1940 in Leesville, SC, and married the love of his life, Becky Cornelia Hartley Smith, on February 15, 1963. He worked several automative-related jobs before continuing the family business and opening S&S Auto Supply with his brother Lamar on January 2, 1969. Interacting with customers and the community formed around the store brought him much joy.

He is survived by his loving wife, Becky, as well as his daughter, Gina McCarty (Bert), and their children Sara Emily (Mack McKearney) and Max; his daughter-in-law Erika Smith, and son Michael “Mike” Lawrence Smith, Jr (Olivia); his brother, Lamar Smith; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael “Mike” Lawrence Smith, his mother and step-father, Willie Ruth Griffith and T. Fred Burnett, and father, Lawrence Mathias “L.M.” Smith.

He loved working with his hands, and always had a project (or two or three) ongoing. Notable projects include building a lake house in the 80s with family (although this project never really ended!), teaching his grandsons about restoring cars, and making picture frames for his many puzzles. He loved Gamecock football, attending almost every home game for over 40 years, and the Batesburg-Leesville Panthers, especially when Mike Jr. was playing. On most weekends, you could find him at the lake - building a porch or gazebo, working on the yard, fishing, searching for arrowheads, or giving family and friends a pontoon tour. He loved water skiing, and patiently towed several generations of friends and family as they learned. He was always the life of the party, and co-hosted large July 4th gatherings for many years.

Memorial services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at Faith Lutheran Church with Rev. Lisa Isenhower officiating. A celebration of life will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. All who knew him are welcome. The family asks that donations to Faith Lutheran Church, 113 North Oak Street, Batesburg, SC 29006 be made instead of flowers or other gifts. Barr-Price Funeral Home and Crematorium, Historic Batesburg-Leesville Chapel is assisting the Smith family with arrangements.

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