News Summary
J. Roland Smith, a notable figure in South Carolina politics, has passed away at the age of 92. Serving 26 years in the South Carolina legislature, his dedication to public service and community building earned him respect and admiration. Smith transitioned from the Democratic to the Republican Party during his career and was awarded the Order of the Palmetto in 2014. His extensive community involvement exemplified his commitment to fostering positive change, leaving behind a legacy marked by kindness and service to education and local well-being.
Langley, South Carolina – J. Roland Smith, a prominent figure in South Carolina politics, passed away on June 30, 2025, at the age of 92. Smith dedicated a significant portion of his life to public service, holding a seat in the South Carolina legislature for 26 years, from 1989 until 2014. His contributions to his community and the state have left a lasting impact on those he represented.
During his long career, Smith began as a Democrat before transitioning to the Republican Party, reflecting the evolving political landscape of the time. His passion for serving the public was recognized through his receipt of the Order of the Palmetto Award, South Carolina’s highest honor, in 2014, underscoring his commitment and profound influence within the state.
Smith’s lifelong residency in Langley, Aiken County, marked all of his efforts to enrich his community. He was known for his kindness, integrity, and a deep concern for the needs of his constituents, qualities that earned him respect and admiration from fellow colleagues and community members alike. His background further bolstered his credibility as a leader; he was a U.S. Air Force veteran and had a long career as an employee with the U.S. Postal Service, where he was affectionately remembered for leaving candy for children on his mail routes.
Beyond politics, Smith played an instrumental role in his community as a pastor and a local leader. He held various positions, including ten years as commander of the Beech Island Rural Community Water District and six years on the Aiken County school board, where he made significant contributions to local education. Additionally, he was known to perform marriages for residents, helping to solidify his reputation as a dedicated member of the community.
Smith’s community involvement extended to the Midland Valley Lions Club, where he was a member for approximately 35 years, demonstrating his commitment to community service. As a loving husband to his wife Peggy, whom he married in 1953, and a father to three children, his family values resonated deeply within his public service ethos. His son, Garry Smith, continued the legacy of family involvement in politics by serving in the South Carolina legislature as well.
Smith’s compassion and commitment were further echoed by those who knew him. Community members described the legacy he leaves behind as one characterized by service, kindness, and decency. His impact on education and community wellbeing will be felt for generations to come.
A funeral service is scheduled to honor Smith’s life on July 5 at the Langley Bible Church at 11 a.m., allowing family, friends, and community members to pay their respects. His passing creates an opening in the state House, where current candidates for the seat previously held by Smith include Ralph Gunter and three other Republicans, following the recent death of Representative Ronnie Young.
As the community mourns the loss of J. Roland Smith, it reflects on the considerable contributions he made, not only through his years of official service but also through his genuine commitment to bettering the lives of those around him.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Roland Smith Obituary
- Legacy: Rev. James Gunter Jr. Obituary
- Legacy: Roland More Obituary
- Augusta Chronicle: 1980s Challenger Gunter
- Google Search: J Roland Smith
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
