Mildred (Hair) Smith, a devoted mother, beloved grandmother, and cherished family matriarch, peacefully passed away at her home on Monday, February 23, 2026, surrounded by her treasured family. Born on September 5, 1940, Mildred dedicated her life to nurturing those she loved while creating a legacy filled with warmth and affection.

For many years, Mildred worked as a waitress, gracing the tables of Calhoun Restaurant and later at Biddie Banquet. Her kindness and dedication to her work were only surpassed by her love for her family. She was known for her ability to brighten a room with her infectious smile and genuine care for those around her.

Mildred found immense joy in cooking for her family, often whipping up favorite dishes that made every gathering a delightful occasion. Her heart warmed at the sight of loved ones gathered around the table, sharing laughter and stories. A true fan of soap operas, she could always be found enjoying her favorite shows.

Mildred embraced her role as "Nana" and "Grangran" with great pride, pouring her love into her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her legacy will continue to shine through her children: Ronald (Debbie) Gunnells, Sharon (Albert) Brabham, and Angie (Clarence) Beason, as well as her many grandchildren, including David (Katie) Brabham, Jeremy (Angel) Gunnells, Brandon (Crystal) Gunnells, Jonathan Brabham, Jordan (Mikayla) Beason, Anna (Justin) Carroll, and her twenty-three great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Mildred is also survived by her brother, Eugene (Vivian) Hair, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends who held her dear. She is lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mildred joins her beloved parents, John B. Hair and Fannie Lee Spires Hair, as well as her grandson, Derrick Gunnells; granddaughter, Kimberly Gaskins; brother, Roger Hair; sister, Elizabeth Tarrant; and granddaughter-in-law, Jennifer Brabham, in eternal rest.

A visitation will be held at Thompson Funeral Home, Inc., located at 1012 Whitman St SE, Orangeburg, SC 29115, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at Bethel Baptist Church, 3705 Cope Road, Cope, SC 29038, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM.  Rev. Charlie Snipes and Rev. Timmy Gunnells will be officiating.  Burial will follow at the church Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are David Brabham, Jordan Beason, Jeremy Gunnells, Brandon Gunnells, Dylan Dale, Travis Gaskins, Ian Dellairo and Justin Carroll.

Mildred (Hair) Smith will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts she touched and the memories she created with her family.