Roy Thomas “R.T.” Smith Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant, went home to be with his Savior on November 25, 2025. Born in Atlanta, Georgia on September 9, 1940, to Roy and Francis Smith, R.T. lived a full life of humble, yet remarkable service and bold faith. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved wife, Peggy McClure Smith. He was a faithful member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
R.T. graduated from The Citadel in 1962. He served in the U.S. Air Force which led him overseas during the Vietnam War. He dedicated over 30 years to the FBI handling assignments reminiscent of a Tom Clancy novel. R.T. led investigations recognized by national leaders, a case was replayed in a movie, and his work was captured in newspapers across the country. His final assignment was spent leading the Field Office in Augusta, Georgia for 18 years. After “retirement”, R.T. continued his work with the Department of Defense as an investigator. He served on the Board of Westminster Schools of Augusta and served as an Elder at First Presbyterian Church Augusta, Georgia. He was instrumental in starting the Augusta Care Pregnancy Center.
Above all else, R.T.’s greatest passion was his relationship with Jesus Christ. He loved engaging everyone he met in faith-filled conversations. He never missed a moment to remind those around him of their profound worth as a son or daughter of our loving God. His love for Jesus fueled mission trips to Romania, Nicaragua, Greece and China. His life advice was “follow Jesus in everything you do”.
R.T. married his beloved Peggy in 1967, and their 50-year vows were fulfilled with her passing in 2017. R.T.’s children and grandchildren were the light of his life, creating lasting memories by chasing adventure and embracing his role as their greatest cheerleader- the worldwide travel with Chapman, watching Macy on the volleyball courts, and exploring Montana with Mary Hannah, Papa never missed a moment with his beloved grandchildren. He fulfilled life-long dreams by running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain in 2019 and walking the beaches of Normandy this past fall. Life was an adventure until his last day!
R.T and Peggy are now joyfully reunited in heaven. He is also predeceased by his best friends and in-laws, Murray and Hazel McClure of Covington, Georgia. He is survived by his daughter Kelly Petty (Jim) of Rock Hill, SC, son Josh (Judy) of Whitefish, MT, grandchildren Chapman, Macy and Mary Hannah. R.T. loved to fellowship with friends, who will cherish precious memories and his “Southern Gentleman” charm. One longtime friend shared that R.T. devoted his life to serve “the least of these”. There is no doubt he was met with “well done, good and faithful servant” when he fell into the arms of his Savior.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, December 13, at 2 pm at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Rock Hill, SC. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Augusta Care Pregnancy Center in Augusta, Georgia or Westminster Presbyterian Church, in Rock Hill, SC.