It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Delmar Smith, or as most knew her, Mrs. Dee Dee, who departed this life on July 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, light, and connection that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
From the moment she entered a room, Mrs. Dee Dee had a rare and remarkable gift: the ability to make anyone feel seen, valued, and truly welcomed. Her smile could brighten even the darkest day, and her warmth radiated beyond her words. She never met a stranger. Whether it had been five minutes or five years, she remembered your name, your story, and made you feel like the most important person in the world.
A natural connector, Mrs. Dee Dee carried within her a spirit that drew people in, not just because of her radiant presence, but because of the way she listened, gave, and loved so selflessly. She was the kind of person who showed up before you even realized you needed someone. Her compassion was quiet but steady, her generosity endless, and her love unconditional.
For over 25 years, Mrs. Dee Dee was a beloved and integral part of the Ashley Hall community. Her dedication, grace, and unmatched ability to connect helped shape the school into the special place it is today. She poured her heart into the students, faculty, and families she served, and in return, she was deeply loved and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her presence there wasn’t just appreciated, it was essential, and it will be profoundly missed.
She was a devoted mother, a loving wife, and an incredible friend anyone would be lucky to have in their corner. She lived a life rooted in kindness, empathy, and service, always thinking of others before herself, always finding ways to uplift, encourage, and extend grace.
Mrs. Dee Dee is survived by her husband Eddie, her children Lauren, Eddie, and Marcus, and countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and so many friends who became family over the years. Her love stretched across generations and communities, a true matriarch in every sense of the word.
Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on in every person she touched — in every story shared, every lesson passed down, every act of kindness carried forward.
She was truly one of a kind, and to be loved by Mrs. Dee Dee was to know something extraordinary. The theme is black with an accent of lavender to honor her favorite colors.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 11am at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Charleston, South Carolina, immediately following will be a repass in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Catholic Charities, in honor of her generous and enduring spirit.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.simmonsfuneralhome.com
Elizabeth D Schley sent Ocean Devotion for Mrs. Delmar Marie Duncan-Smith - July 29, 2025
Sally Sheppard sent Joyful Memory for Mrs. Delmar Marie Duncan-Smith - July 28, 2025
Gone but not forgotten may Mrs. Dee Dee may your light and your words continue to touch the heart of many as you did Rest in peace 🥰 Family you have my deepest condolences and love if I can do anything in the days and years to come feel free to call on me ❤️🙏🏽
Mrs.Dee Dee was a ray of sunshine in our lives everyday for 16 years at Ashley Hall for Joe Jon Jen and myself! I feel so blessed to have known her and Lauren I am here for you for whatever you need!!! All our love, Joli
We are so sorry for your loss. She was truly a special person—with a naturally kind and comforting presence, always so nice to be around. She had a beautiful way of making others feel good about themselves and was always willing to help. Her kindness and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. She'll be deeply missed and warmly remembered.
Mrs. Dee Dee was one of a kind. I'd always tell her, "You're my favorite boss I'll ever have." Mrs. Dee Dee was so creative and crafty! I'd love how she could make anything fun for kids! Especially a rainy day. Mrs. Dee Dee taught us so much about how to work with children and supported me into becoming a teacher. I'm so sorry Eddie, Lauren, and family. Dee Dee will be greatly missed. Love, Anne Funderburk 💜🤍🕊️
Dee-Dee was a very sweet lady to know and I'm beyond grateful that her memory will live on in her daughter Lauren. May you find peace during this unimaginable time!
She was the sweetest and kindest lady and the world I'm going to miss her so much ❤️
Sincere condolences to the Smith family. Dee Dee was a light to all who encounter her presence. Her smile, decorative insight and loving spirit will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace, Pat Mack and Family.
Eddie and Family our deepest sympathy and prayers of Comfort for You all.
Will, Patricia and Will, IV
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.