Byron J. Smith

He is survived by two sons, Jeff Smith, of Greenville; Scott (JoAnn) Smith, of Charlotte, NC; daughter, Becky (Tim) Brewer of Asheville, NC; seven #1 granddaughters and two #1 grandsons. He is also survived by four wonderful great-granddaughters. BJ is also survived by two older siblings Marion Crider, 100, and Samuel Smith, 88.

As the youngest of nine children and losing both parents by the age of 6, BJ and his older brother Sam were sent to the Hershey Boy’s Home founded by Milton Hershey, of the Hershey Chocolate Company. He and his brother grew up working on the farm and considers this one of the greatest experiences of his life.

After leaving Hershey, BJ finished high school and joined the Air Force. Upon return, he began working as an electrician on the Pennsylvania Railroad. BJ put himself through Penn State University and graduated with Honors in 1955. Upon graduating with a degree in electrical engineering, BJ went on to work for GE, moving all over the eastern US until he was transferred to Greenville, where he assisted in the opening of the newly built plant, eventually becoming the Plant Manager. After 25 years, BJ went on to run the Textron Plant in Greer for several years until he retired at an early age to enjoy his grandchildren.

Services will be held Monday, May 2, 2016 at 11:00am at Mackey Mortuary.

The family will greet friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in BJ’s memory to Piedmont Hospice, 209-A Riverside Ct, Greer, SC 29650.