Ruth Busbee Smith

Ruth Busbee Smith, 89, passed away from this life into the next in the early morning hours of May 4th, 2026. Born on October 31, 1936, Ruth was raised in Swansea, South Carolina, a place she was proud to call home.

Ruth moved to Columbia as a young woman, and began her professional life at Southern Bell, later known as BellSouth, retiring with over 40 years of service working in various departments, primarily accounting positions. She built many lasting friendships along the way, including a lifelong friendship with the late Frances Motte. Frances introduced Ruth to the love of her life, Owen “Junior” Smith. They married in 1961 and shared 51 devoted years together until his passing in 2013. They had one daughter, Pamela Smith Pierce, two grandchildren, Andrew M. Pierce and McKenzie Grace Pierce and twin great-grandsons, Grayson and Finley Ferris.

After retiring from BellSouth, she continued her service as State Treasurer for the Church of God of Prophecy State Headquarters, located at Camp Agape in Batesburg, South Carolina. Education was a lifelong pursuit for Ruth. She graduated as the salutatorian of her graduating class of Swansea High. Following high school, she attended night classes at University of South Carolina, working to pave her own way. Though she was unable to complete her degree as a young woman, her thirst for knowledge was never quenched. Ruth returned to school later in life, earning her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Southern Wesleyan University, graduating magna cum laude at the age of 58.

Ruth’s life was marked by deep faith and a commitment to serving others. She was a longtime member of the Church of God of Prophecy, and was actively involved for over 30 years as Sunday School teacher and local church treasurer. She had a special place in her heart for young people, teaching, always ready to listen, and encourage. In her later years, she attended Harvest Church, where she was actively involved in their 60s plus ministry. She was especially thankful for the friendships and support she found there.

Even in retirement, Ruth remained dedicated to helping others, volunteering weekly at MUSC (formerly Providence Northeast) for nearly 20 years, and served as one of the founding members of the volunteer organization, the FriendShip. Ironically, Ruth was timely named as the monthly spotlight member for its May ‘26 Newsletter. Her life reflected her deeply held conviction: “We have limitless power with God and are only limited by disbelief.”

She found joy in the outdoors, gardening and especially in tending her yard, which was her happy place. She also loved reading, writing, sewing, and working crossword puzzles. One of her most prized accomplishments was the publication of her book, Once Upon A Country Road, where she shares her perspective in hopes to enlighten younger generations on how her family conquered challenges many have now forgotten.

Above all, she lived a life marked by service, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family. Ruth lived with a deep and abiding faith, often reminding others that “positive, passionate people have confidence in God, not fear.” In her own words: “If you hear Ruth Busbee Smith has died, don’t believe a word of it, because I have just moved on to a better world of eternal bliss.”

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Crosia Busbee; her beloved husband, Owen Junior Smith; her brothers, H.P, Floyd, Horace, Ezra, and Jeremiah and sisters, Dorcas, Esther and Lois. Ruth is survived by the youngest of her 10 siblings, her brother, Tracy (Betty), and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

The celebration of life for Ruth will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, with visitation taking place at 10:00 a.m. The graveside service will be at Southland Memorial Gardens, 700 W Dunbar Road W, West Columbia, SC, 29170 at 12:30 p.m.