Byron "Papaw" Kirk Smith

In Loving Memory of Byron “Papaw” Kirk Smith December 13, 1958 – October 18, 2025 Augusta, Georgia Byron “Papaw” Kirk Smith, 66, of Augusta, Georgia, passed away on October 18, 2025. He was born in Beckley, West Virginia, on December 13, 1958, to the late Noel Smith and Nelly Kincaid. Byron was an honors graduate of Shady Spring High School, where he earned a college scholarship. Instead of following that path, he chose the one that mattered most to his heart — marriage, fatherhood, and family. He devoted his life to raising his seven daughters, whom were his reason for living. “Papaw” was known for his hard work, his kind and humble spirit, and his love of the outdoors. Whether planting flowers, or just spending time with his kids and grandkids, Byron found joy in life’s simple, genuine moments. He had a special gift for making others laugh, especially when it was needed the most. His sense of humor and kind heart will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and family that will live on through every story told and memory shared. Byron is preceded in death by his father, Noel Smith; brothers, Darryl and Gary Smith; sisters, Lois Smith and Loretta Pauley; nephew, Robert “Smitty” Smith Jr.; niece, Courtney Smith; and grandchildren, Angel, Winter, Liam, Miracle, and Layla. He is survived by his devoted mother, Nelly Smith, brothers, a sister, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, his loving daughters: Melissa Smith (Charlie), Mandy Robinson, Sarah Smith (Daniel), Cassandra Wilcox (Ricky), Pennelope Hamby, Jennifer Pitre (Logan), and Amelia Kellam (Stephen). Also surviving are his cherished grandchildren — Aaron (Olivia), Payton, Paige, Brian, Destiny, Braedon, Asher, Avery, Christmas, Seven, Paul, Isabella, Jenna, Debra, Dale, Summer, Abigail, Austin, Mason, Brody, and Karter — and great-grandchildren, Oaklyn and Lawson, who were the lights of his life. A private viewing will be held for the immediate family. Byron will be remembered for his gentle heart, his humor, and the way he loved his family unconditionally. Though he may no longer walk beside us, his memory will forever bloom in every flower he planted and live on in every life he touched. "He found peace beneath the open sky, His heart with all those he loved. Now he rests where the flowers grow, And the sun forever shines." Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906. www.chanceandhydrick.com

Byron "Papaw" Kirk Smith

December 13, 1958 - October 28, 2025