Derek Wayne Smith

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Derek Wayne Smith, age 49, of Gaston, SC. Derek passed away on May 17, 2023 in Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center Hartsville, SC. He was born August 24, 1973 in Richlands, VA. He was the son of the late Dena Smith and Darrell Wayne Smith of Gaston, SC. Derek worked most of his adult life as a truck driver and large equipment operator. He was an avid family man, who cherished spending time with his family. When he wasn't spending time with family and friends, Derek enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, and fishing. He was an active member of Pine Grove Hunting Club and Slab Landing Hunting Club. Derek will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dena Gail Smith; and grandparents, Clarence and Janie Davis, and Cecil and Lena Smith. Those that remain to carry on his loving spirit include his father, Darrell Wayne Smith; sister, Delena Pate and husband Richard Pate; nieces, Hannah Pate and Leiren Pate; and great nephew, Easton Pate; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, family and friends including special friends, Mike Swearingen, Nikki Hamlin and her daughters, Kourtlynn and Carrigan Hamlin. The family will receive family and friends at Thompson Funeral Home, 4720 Augusta Rd. Lexington, SC 29073 on Monday, May 22, 2023 between the hours of 6:00-8:00PM. The Memorial Service will be conducted Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Thompson Funeral Home at 1PM with Pastor Linda Pruitt officiating. For those unable to attend, the service will be available to view at the following link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/6808468266 If anyone would like to express sympathy you can do so at thompsonfuneral.com. Flowers and donations are welcomed by the family. Flowers and gifts will be handled by Thompson Funeral Home.