William "Randy" Randolph Smith, Jr.

William Randolph “Randy” Smith, Jr., a man whose warmth, integrity, and vibrant spirit touched countless lives, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 11, 1954, in Chattanooga, TN, to Dr. William Randolph Smith, Sr. and Margaret Duncan “Peggy” Smith. Randy’s childhood in Cleveland, TN, nurtured a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He spent many happy days exploring the beauty of the Tellico and Smoky Mountain areas, camping, hiking, and fishing alongside his father and brother, Duncan.

After earning his degree in Business/Marketing from the University of Tennessee, Randy embarked on a successful career in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, beginning in property management in 1979. His genuine care for rental guests quickly shone through, establishing him as a dedicated leader with a welcoming heart. Randy’s commitment to service extended beyond his profession, as he generously volunteered with the Red Cross during natural disasters, like Hurricane Hugo, and was a regular blood donor.

Randy’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to a thriving career in real estate. He was the owner of Randy’s Real Estate, Inc and Principal Partner of Lancaster Real Estate serving as Broker-In-Charge of both. His expertise and dedication further led to the Berkshire Hathaway Home Services franchise in the Hilton Head/Bluffton area, where he served as a Principal Partner and Broker-In-Charge. Randy was a respected leader in the community serving as President of Hilton Head Area REALTORS® in 2002 as well as a State Director for South Carolina REALTORS® for many years. Randy also served many years as President of the Multiple Listing Service of Hilton Head where his leadership and commitment helped shape the local real estate industry known today. He found immense joy in connecting clients with their perfect properties, forging many lasting friendships along the way.

Known for his unwavering integrity, genuine kindness, inner strength, and quick wit, Randy possessed a remarkable ability to connect with people. He was a natural leader with a big heart, always honest, caring, and ready with a good laugh. He stood firm in his convictions and cherished his family, friends, good food, and the beauty of the natural world.  Randy’s legacy of love, laughter, and dedicated effort will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him and his memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched.

He is deeply missed by his loving wife, Gloria Henley Smith; his sisters, Nancy Wilbraham (the late Scott), Sidney Turner (Joe), Pat Sobek (Steve), and Judy Newell (Franklin); his special sister-in-law, Linda Henley Allen (the late Frank) and his many loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Duncan Clarke Smith.

Graveside services will be held at Arlington Memorial Park in Sandy Springs, GA, at 10:00am, May 31, 2025, followed by a reception. A Remembrance Gathering to celebrate Randy’s life will take place on Hilton Head Island (tentatively) June 16th. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Marisol Hospice (formerly Hospice Care of the LowCountry).