Esther Anderson Smith

Her Celebration of Life service will be held on March 28, 2026 at Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel. The family will receive friends after the service at the same location. A private memorial and scattering ceremony will be held at a later date.

Born July 8, 1943, in Conway, South Carolina, Esther was the daughter of the late James Edgar Miller and Nina Allen Miller. She was a member of Three Rivers Baptist Church and spent many years working in retail, where she was known for her kindness, patience, and welcoming spirit toward everyone she met.

Esther lived a full and generous life, always ready to lend a hand or share a smile. She treasured time with her family, enjoyed simple pleasures, and approached each day with gratitude and love. Her compassion and faith touched all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her sons, Gene Anderson, Jr. of Summerville, SC, and Howard Smith of Beaufort, SC, as well as several siblings.

She is survived by her daughters from her first marriage — Elaine Eshleman (Ron) of Greensburg, PA; Peggy Garrett (Marvin) of Knoxville, TN; and Mary Anderson of Charleston, SC — along with her children from her second marriage — Charley Smith of Beaufort, SC; Debbie Shepard (Garret) of Rogers, MN; Mike Smith of Beaufort, SC; Rina Baker (Teddy) of Beaufort, SC; and Eric Smith of Irmo, SC. She is survived by her bonus daughter Megan Smith. She is also survived by her sister, Mollie Strickland, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Esther was greatly blessed with fifteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Three Rivers Baptist Church in Esther’s honor.