Rachel Smith Bagwell

Rachel Smith Bagwell, 87, of Pickens, wife of the late John Paul Bagwell, passed into the glories of heaven on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.

Born in Pickens, she was the daughter of the late Enos Smith and the late Ola Hunter Smith.

Rachel received Christ as her Savior and was a faithful and active church member from a young age. Since 1981, she was a charter member of Northside Baptist Church in Pickens. She loved to sing and was a member of her church choir and for several years served as Sunday School Secretary. Rachel was active in the Silver Threads group at Northside and enjoyed fellowshipping with the other senior saints.

She had a strong work ethic and was an employee for 45 years at Kent Manufacturing in Pickens. She made many lifelong friends at Kent. Rachel enjoyed bowling and was a member of a bowling team for several years.

Rachel loved and was loved by her family. She is survived by two nieces, June Tuck (Harold) and Joan Summey (John); and five nephews, Mike Smith (Jill), Hub Smith (Patsy), Rex Smith (Glenda), Roger Chastain (Jeri), and Chris Smith (Cindy).

In addition to her loving husband and parents, she was predeceased by two sisters, Christine Stansell and Priscilla Chastain; two brothers, Edgar Smith and Cecil Smith; and a nephew, Gary Chastain.

Rachel loved cats and claimed many homeless cats as her own over the years. Even in her recent illness in the hospital, she spoke affectionately of her current cat, Tiny, and how she missed him.

Rachel testified to many that she was alright knowing that she would soon pass from this life, always adding, "It's Jesus and me." On January 12, she went from feeling His presence to being in His presence.

Heartfelt thanks to the ones who lovingly cared for Rachel at McCall Hospice in Simpsonville, SC.

Due to COVID-19, a private graveside memorial service will be held.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory-Downtown, Easley.