Galivants Ferry, October 9, 2025
News Summary
The Galivants Ferry community is mourning the loss of Thomas ‘T.K.’ Kenyon Smith, a beloved family man and golf enthusiast who passed away at 89. His legacy is cherished by his daughters and grandchildren. Known for his warmth and dedication, T.K. touched countless lives and will be remembered fondly by family, friends, and the local church community. A memorial service will honor his contributions, with contributions requested for his church and hospice care.
Galivants Ferry Mourns the Loss of Beloved Family Man, Thomas “T.K.” Kenyon Smith
In the small, tight-knit community of Galivants Ferry, a heartfelt farewell is unfolding as the family and friends of Thomas “T.K.” Kenyon Smith gather to remember an extraordinary man who touched so many lives. T.K. passed away quietly on October 8, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by the love of his three daughters in the comfort of his home.
A Life Well-Lived
T.K. wasn’t just known for his years but for the rich tapestry of his life experiences. He was the beloved husband of the late Nora James Smith and cherished son of John Gary and Leitha Lambert Smith, both now departed. Family played a huge role in his life, and he is survived by his three daughters: Amy Davis (married to Robert), Ann Hambrick (with John), and Julia Coker (married to Greg).
Military and Career Achievements
T.K. served his country proudly in the U.S. Army, a testament to his dedication and spirit. He was well-regarded in his community after retiring from the Horry County Assessor’s Office, where he excelled as a real estate appraiser. His professional accomplishments earned him respect and admiration, and many will remember his hearty laughter and generous heart.
Family Matters
T.K. was not only a devoted father but also a proud grandfather. He leaves behind seven grandchildren who carry on his legacy: Dustin Davis, Major James Davis (who serves in the U.S. Air Force), Trey Davis, Dr. Walter Hambrick, Lt. Jesse Hambrick (also a member of the U.S. Air Force), Lt. JG Grayson Coker (serving in the U.S. Navy), and David Coker. The love he shared with his family was palpable, and this bond will be his lasting gift.
A Community Pillar
A valued member of the Pisgah Global Methodist Church, T.K. was known for his warm heart and welcoming spirit. Whether on Sundays or during community functions, he made everyone feel like family. People knew they could count on T.K. for a smile or a helping hand.
Passion for Golf
After his retirement, T.K. took up golfing, discovering a new passion in those sunny afternoons. It became more than just a sport; it was a social activity that brought him joy and connection with friends.
Appreciation for Care
In these final days, T.K. was attended to with utmost care by his loving family and the dedicated staff at Crescent Hospice and Myrtle Beach Grove. Their compassionate service was a great comfort to him and his family during this time.
A Farewell Celebration
The family is preparing to honor T.K.’s legacy with a memorial service, which will be announced at a later date. They have requested that, in lieu of flowers, friends and family consider making memorial contributions to his cherished Pisgah Global Methodist Church or Crescent Hospice, an organization that provided immense support.
The world may have lost a remarkable gentleman, but the impact of T.K. Smith will always remain close to the hearts of those who knew him. Here’s to a life well-lived and a ‘forever’ loved soul.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach Prepares for Severe Thunderstorms and Tropical Storm Threat
Horry County Community Unites at ECHO’s Fundraiser Event
Additional Resources
- Legacy: Thomas Smith Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Johnson Funeral Home: Jack Edwards
- Dignity Memorial: Linda Terry
- Watson Funeral Services: Timothy Squires
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
