Emily Katherine Clayton Smith

Emily Katherine Clayton Smith passed away on February 3, 2011, at the age of 89 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law on James Island. She was the widow of Horace Paul Smith.

"Kitty" was born on March 13, 1921 in Givhans, SC.  The daughter of Middleton Samuel Clayton and Rebecca Green Clayton, she was one of nine siblings.  She was raised on her parents' farm in Givhans.  Although she moved to Charleston, SC upon her marriage, she remained a country girl at heart.  Her family home in Givhans was a frequent meeting place for reunions and get togethers which she relished.  Her mastery of country cuisine was well known among her family and many friends.  One of her hobbies, and greatest loves was to plan, prepare and serve a sumptuous feast.  Her signature item was a German apple cloven which she would prepare for any and all occasions.

Kitty is survived by her four daughters, Emily S. Schroeder (Walter) of James Island, SC, Paulette S. Sojourner (Robert) of Charleston, SC, Suzanne S. Bridges (John) of Rockledge, FL and Amelia Rose Smith Bryan (Jack) of Mt. Pleasant, SC. Eight grandchildren: Michelene S. Ferguson (Michael) of Lincolnton, GA, Walter Michael Schroeder (Jennifer) of Marietta, GA, Robert David Sojourner, Jr., (Christina) of Johns Island, SC, Katherine M. Sojourner of Charleston, SC, William Franklin Bridges (Katina) of Navarre, FL, Elizabeth Bridges Watson (Anthony) of Toowoomba, Australia, John P. Bryan, III of Mt. Pleasant, SC, Peter C. Bryan of Mt. Pleasant, SC and fifteen great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by her sisters: Mildred C. Roush of Savannah, GA and Jennie C. Goodman of Charleston, SC and one brother, James M. Clayton (Phyllis) of Givhans, SC.  She dedicated her life to her family but especially to her husband, Horace and her four daughters, who loved her dearly.

In recent years, Kitty had been an active and enthusiastic participant in the Respite Care Ministries program held at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church and The Lutheran Church of The Redeemer. As the program director, Chandler Culbreath, so eloquently stated, "I always relish and enjoy the grace, charm, and the ever-expanding heart of Kitty. She is an absolute gift within our program.  The days she is not here, a light is missed." These words best sum up the essence of Kitty Smith.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests your donations to: Respite Care Ministry, 405 King St., Charleston, SC 29403 or Hospice Care of America, 9217 University Blvd., Suite C1D, North Charleston, SC 29406 or The Lutheran Church of The Redeemer, 714 Riverdale Drive, Charleston, SC 29407.

The family would like to extend their deepest thanks to Sharon Hutchinson, RN, CHPN of Hospice Care of the America for her dedication, compassion, and positive but cheerful support.  Also, to Kiara Johnson of Care for Life for her tender, loving care, and devotion to our mother.

The relatives and friends of Emily Katherine Clayton Smith are invited to attend her funeral service at The Lutheran Church of The Redeemer, Monday, February 7, 2011 at 11:00 AM.  Interment, Live Oak Memorial Gardens.  Visitation will be held at J. HENRY STUHR, INC., DOWNTOWN CHAPEL, 232 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401, Sunday between 2:00 and 5:00 pm.