Mr. George Henry Smith, Jr.

George H. Smith Jr. of Salem, SC, passed away on May 13, 2025, at the age of 82. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Essertier their son, Steve Smith (Angela); their daughter, Tibby Smith; and two cherished granddaughters, Anna Alexis Smith and Madeline Grace Smith. George was born in Schenectady, NY on August 12,1960. His family moved to Ridgewood, NJ when he was a small child and he graduated from Ridgewood High School in 1962. He earned his B.S. in Economics and Business Administration from Central College in Pella, Iowa, and proudly served as a member of the United States Marine Corps. He was known for his sharp wit, dry humor, and unwavering loyalty to his friends. Many described George as “one of a kind,” and those who knew him well often said that once you were a friend of George, you were a friend for life. George held fond memories of growing up in Ridgewood, NJ often reflecting on what he called a “wonderful” childhood. Even as his career in sales took him and his family away from Ridgewood for a few years, he was determined to return so that his children could benefit from the town’s close-knit community and excellent schools. His commitment to giving them the Ridgewood experience brought the family back during their junior high and high school years. The majority of George’s professional career was spent in the bakery equipment industry, where he found great success. During the 1970s and 1980s, as supermarket chains across the country began installing in-store bakeries, the industry boomed—and so did George’s business. At its peak, his company held a 90% share of the national market. This eventually led to a monopoly lawsuit—which the company won. Ironically, it was later acquired by the very entity that had filed the suit. After a series of additional mergers and acquisitions, George went on to start his own company, which he operated until his retirement at the age of 59. In 1991, once their children had left for college, George and Ann moved to Jacksonville, FL, where they spent 21 happy years. George retired shortly after 9/11, trading the stress of constant travel for the peace of the golf course—a change he welcomed. In 2011, the couple relocated to South Carolina to be closer to their grandchildren and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and lakes. They settled in Keowee Key, a scenic golf course community where they formed lasting friendships and embraced a relaxed, fulfilling lifestyle. Ann continues to reside in Keowee Key. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Keowee Key Club in Salem, SC, on June 21st. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Hospice of the Foothills or the Prisma Health Cancer Institute, both located in Seneca, SC.

Mr. George Henry Smith, Jr.

August 12, 1942 - May 13, 2025