Mrs. Iola Irby Smith, daughter of the late Helen Pitts Irby and the late Wilmer Irby, was born on December 14, 1937, in Spartanburg County.  She was a consummate homemaker and a fantastic cook, known for her exquisite style of dressing, who enjoyed cooking nourishing meals and taking care of her family. One of her greatest joys was attending different churches with family members.  Iola's favorite color was red. Iola was educated in the Spartanburg County school system and received her high school diploma.  She later married the love of her life, Richard Smith, and to their union, five daughters were born.

She leaves to cherish fond and loving memories to her daughters, Sherry A. Smith of Spartanburg, SC, Robin Kerns of Inman, SC,  Elaine Dawkins of Spartanburg, SC,  Sandy (Ray Massey) Smith of Spartanburg, SC, and Teresa  Robinson of  Spartanburg, SC; sisters,  Peggy (Boyd) Tolbert and Patricia Irby both of Spartanburg, SC; brothers, Abu ( Rosa) Irby of Spartanburg, SC and Melvin (Gwen) Irby of Jersey City, NJ; grandchildren,  Chasity M. Smith, Sherri Smith, Samantha Ballenger, Richard E. Smith, Latoya Lyles, Latisha Robinson, Donnie Kerns, Antwon Smith, and Zakee' Smith; 17 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild to be born in December of 2022; and a host of nieces, nephews, other loving relatives, and friends.

On the morning of Wednesday, November 2, 2022, Mrs. Iola quit her busy walk of life. She leaves her rich legacy of family and love to all who knew her. Our queen is resting from her labor and has received her just reward.