Roy G. Smarr, Jr., P.E., of Columbia, died July 11, 2016. He was the son of the late Dr. Roy G. and Bertha A. Smarr. He was a graduate of Clemson University and was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity. He was a professional electrical engineer and was retired from the SC Dept. of Disabilities and Special Needs, but had currently been serving as a part-time consultant.

Roy was skilled and talented in so many areas, especially woodworking, by designing and making beautiful guitars, violins and mandolins, a Luthier (Guild of American Luthiers). He was a licensed professional Amateur Radio Technologist (N4DLM) and could design and make any type of electronic Item, especially Crystal Radios. He was a member of The Antique Wireless Association.

Surviving is his wife of 33 years, Alta Meetze "Micki"; and his brother, Jesse A. Smarr and his wife Sandy; their daughters, Lisa and Susan; a sister-in-law, Mary "Pat" Meetze; Roy's daughter, Laurel; and a grandson Joey. He also leaves behind his pet children (Kitty's) Vanilla Bean, SnowBean, Wilma, and Mr. Edison. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, A. Roger Smarr.

Many thanks for all the fun, care, and concern to all Roy's friends, neighbors, co-workers, associates, and the "breakfast staff" at Lizard's Thicket on Elmwood through the years.

Special thanks to all the wonderful doctors, nurses, techs, especially those on 10 and 11 West at Palmetto Health Richland for all their care and kindness to him and Alta, during this difficult time. Thanks to Dr. Frederic Smith at Columbia Medical Associates for his care and friendship through all the many years.

As per Roy's wishes, there will only be a private family blessing of his life. Pastor Jerry W. Branham will preside. Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers and memorials, it was his desire that a kind act of helping someone in need and helping poor little animals would be the most thoughtful way of remembering him, as he was so kind to many people and animals with his big heart of generosity.