Gaines Wilton Smith

Gaines Wilton Smith, much loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, attorney and longtime resident of Charleston departed his earthly life on October 12, 2017 at his residence. His Funeral Service will be held Sunday, October 15, 2017 in Bethel United Methodist Church, 57 Pitt Street at 3:00 p.m. The family will receive friends Saturday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel, 3360 Glenn McConnell Parkway.

Gaines began his life in Spartanburg, South Carolina on November 22, 1921. He was one of nine children born to Harry Conway and Callie McCombs Smith. His passions included his family, his church, his law practice and spending time outdoors. He was an active member of Bethel United Methodist Church and served as a Sunday School teacher and in various leadership positions over many years. He enjoyed hunting dove, duck, geese, quail, turkey and fresh-water fishing with family and friends in various locations near and afar.

Gaines began his legal career in Charleston as a Clerk in the U.S. Federal Court. He also served as a United States Commissioner for many years. In December 1950 Gaines joined the law firm of Legare, Hare and Smith where he practiced law in Charleston for the next 67 years. He served as President of the Charleston County Bar Association from 1975 to 1976. Gaines was also a World War II Veteran having served in the United States Army Air Corps.

Gaines and Elinor traveled with both family and friends and always enjoyed seeing and exploring new areas as well as returning to favorite vacation spots. Boating at the lake and sharing time with those they loved brought him great pleasure. Always loyal to his friends and especially to his family, Gaines was generous with his time, his knowledge and his gifts.

He married Elinor Lowry Jones on June 26, 1942 and she remains the love of his life. They have two daughters Kathleen Elinor Smith Moore (Herbert L.) and Sharon Kay Smith McDonald (C. Harold, deceased) who benefited greatly from his love and care.His grandchildren and great grandchildren were also recipients of Poppa's pride and steadfast love. These family members include: Kenneth Gaines McDonald (Julie) and Justin; Jeffrey Capers Moore (Inna) and Silas and Addie; Heidi McDonald Blanton (Jonathan) and Rhett and Cody; Rev. Christopher Gregory Moore (Molly) and Isaac, Elijah and James.

The family requests that memorials be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 57 Pitt St., Charleston, SC 29401 or Piedmont Hospice, 501A Deanna Lane, Wando, SC, 29492.

His family is ever grateful for the many years shared with Gaines and trusts that he now rests safely in the hands of God.