Preacher Dennis Allen Smith Sr., age 77, passed away on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025.
He was born on Sept. 5, 1948 in Richmond County, son of the late Martha and June Smith.
Dennis previously worked at Clark Equipment and Cameron Morrison Correctional. He later devoted his life to ministry and served faithfully as the pastor of Sandhills Wesleyan Church in Bennettsville, South Carolina, where his compassion, leadership, and steadfast faith touched many lives.
Dennis was known for his love of country and gospel music and could play the piano and guitar like no other. His musical gifts blessed countless church services, community events and family gatherings, bringing joy and comfort to all who heard him play.
He was preceded in death by his siblings Ruth Williams, Harrison Smith and Dorothy Weatherford; as well as his son-in-law, Richard Jones.
Dennis is survived by the love of his life of 57 years, Barbara Gulledge Smith; his children, Lorie Locklear (Junior), Tammy Jones and J.R. Smith (Kimberly); grandchildren, Amanda Sinclair (Charlie), Hunter Lee (Ciera), Amber Locklear (Brad), Randy Coates Jr. (Carly), Austin Smith and Drew Smith (Hayley); and great-grandchildren, Caden Locklear, Nick and Dixie Lee, Kalon, Kiyah and Krew Locklear. His is also survived by his brother- and sister-in-law, James “Mann” Gulledge and Norma Watson; many loved nieces and nephews; and special friend, Samuel Talley.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 5-7 p.m. at Abundant Life Church, 1797 E. Broad Ave. Rockingham. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, Dec. 11, at 1 p.m., also at Abundant Life Church with Pastor Joe Wilkes and Pastor Mike Childers officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 1247 Sandhills Road, Rockingham. At other times, the family will receive visitors and friends at the home, 766 Cheraw Road, Hamlet.
His legacy of love, faith, music, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A special thanks to Liberty Home Health and Hamlet Rescue.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Hamlet Fire and Rescue, 302 Champlain St., Hamlet, NC 28345.
Harrington Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
