Timothy Christopher Smoak, known by all as “Chris”, age 52, entered into rest early Sunday morning, October 11, 2026, at his residence in Walterboro, South Carolina.
With hearts full of love and sorrow, we celebrate the life of Chris Smoak, a devoted husband, loving father, faithful follower of God, and a man whose life left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Born on December 5, 1973, in Ridgeland, South Carolina, Chris lived a life defined by faith, hard work, family, music, and a personality that was uniquely his own.
Above all else, Chris was a devoted follower of God. His faith was an important part of his life, and he found joy in gospel music and the message of the Lord. He loved listening to Bishop Wooden and Jimmy Swaggart, and he enjoyed the music and ministry at Spirit of Life that brought him closer to his faith. He also had a fun side and a love for professional wrestling, especially the legendary Ric Flair. Chris’s interests were as diverse as his personality, and he never had to fit into just one category to be himself.
Music had been a part of Chris’s life since early childhood, when he began playing the piano. As he grew older, he also enjoyed playing the bass guitar. Whether listening to gospel music or playing an instrument himself, music was something he carried with him throughout his life. It was one of the many ways he expressed himself and found joy in the world around him.
For nearly 30 years, Chris dedicated himself to his career with SCE&G, now Dominion Energy. He was a hardworking man who took pride in working with his hands and getting things done. He enjoyed figuring things out, taking on projects, and putting his skills to use. He was also an organized man who liked things done a certain way.
Those who knew Chris will likely remember one of his familiar sayings: “It shouldn’t take more than an hour.” Of course, that one-hour project sometimes turned into five business days! It was one of those little quirks that made him memorable and brought smiles to the faces of those who knew him best. These are the everyday moments that become priceless memories—the little things that make a person irreplaceable.
Chris was also a man who loved the outdoors and appreciated the beauty of God’s creation. He enjoyed kayaking, camping, collecting things that caught his interest, and spending time outside. Table Rock Mountain held a special place in his heart, offering the kind of beauty and peace he loved. He was an animal lover, too, with a heart for the creatures around him. And while he enjoyed adventure and the great outdoors, he also appreciated life’s simple comforts, including a good piece of cornbread and a glass of chocolate milk.
Chris was a proud graduate of Walterboro High School, Class of 1993. His desire to continue learning and better himself led him to pursue higher education later in life. In 2018, he graduated from Ashworth College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, earning his degree with honors. This accomplishment reflected his determination, perseverance, and commitment to achieving his goals. It was a meaningful milestone in a life marked by hard work and dedication.
Of all the roles Chris held throughout his life, the ones closest to his heart were those of husband and father. He shared 27 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Christina Smoak. Together, they built a life filled with shared experiences, memories, and a bond that will forever remain a part of her heart. He was a loving father to their son, Parker Smoak, who will carry his father’s influence, lessons, and love with him throughout his life. The love Chris gave his family was a gift that will continue to live on long after his passing.
Chris is survived by his beloved wife of 27 years, Christina Smoak; his son, Parker Smoak; his father, Roger Leon Smoak (Betty); his siblings, Angela Dantzler (Jason) and David Smoak (Loris); his nieces and nephews, Shayla, Ethan, Trystan, Nathan, Preston, Chase, and Jaxon; his great-nieces and great-nephews, Amara, Claire, and Samuel. He also leaves behind Mariah, Shawn, AJ, and Aaron, whom he loved as his own, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Gladys Jones Smoak, whose memory remained a part of his life and family story.
Though his family and friends grieve the loss of Chris, they can find comfort in the faith he held so dearly. The promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ reminds us that death is not the end for those who believe. We take comfort in imagining Chris at peace in the presence of the Lord, surrounded by the heavenly music he loved, with the beauty of God’s creation all around him.
The hands that worked so diligently on earth are now at rest. The music he played will echo in the memories of those who heard it. The lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will continue to shape the lives of those he leaves behind.
Chris’s life cannot be measured solely by the years he lived, but by the love he gave, the faith he carried, the work he devoted himself to, and the memories he created. Though his absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled, his family and friends will forever hold on to the pieces of him that made their lives better.
Until we meet again, may the Lord welcome you home, may the music of heaven surround you, and may those who love you find peace in the promise that we will one day be together again.
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant: … enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” — Matthew 25:21 (KJV)
Funeral services were held 1 o’clock Saturday afternoon, October 17, 2026, from Spirit of Life Ministries, Varnville. Interment followed at Glendale Memorial Cemetery, Walterboro.
ARRANGEMENTS BY: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408. Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndon.com.
