Winslow Smith was born on June 16, 1935, in Greer, South Carolina, to William Taft and Laura Smith. He attended Dunbar High School in Greer. At the age of 17, Winslow proudly joined the United States Air Force in 1952. During his four years of service, he was stationed in Korea and Japan before separating from the Air Force in 1956 at Dover Air Force Base.

After leaving the Air Force, Winslow moved to Brooklyn, New York, where he lived with his parents. During this time, he and his predeceased wife Roslyn, welcomed three children: sons Daryl and Courtney, and daughter Michael. The family later moved to Queens, New York, where Winslow’s life took another meaningful turn.

In Queens, Winslow met the love of his life, Elizabeth Renee. They were married on February 20, 1971, beginning a partnership that would last for 55 years. Elizabeth brought two children from a previous marriage, Noel and Ian, into the family, and together Winslow and Elizabeth welcomed their son, Nicholas. Winslow embraced his roles as husband, father, stepfather, and grandfather, always keeping his family close to his heart.

For many years, Winslow worked for Arnold Ward Studios, traveling throughout the eastern United States to decorate large supermarkets. He truly loved his work, especially being on the road and driving. He took great pride in what he did and enjoyed the opportunity to travel while pursuing work he found fulfilling.

Winslow was loved by everyone who knew him. He never met a stranger and had a special way of making people feel welcome. Above all, he was a devoted family man who believed in bringing loved ones together. He was often the one organizing family reunions, barbecues, trips to the park, and outings to Coney Island. Creating memories with his family was one of the greatest joys of his life.

After retiring from Arnold Ward Studios, Winslow continued doing something he enjoyed: driving. He drove the church van for Springfield Garden Methodist Church, taking church members to various events and activities. He enjoyed chauffeuring the members and spending time with his church family.

In 2013, Winslow and Elizabeth moved to Florida, beginning a new chapter of their lives together. While living there, Winslow enjoyed spending time with his family and appreciating the simple things that brought him joy. He loved music, especially Motown, and enjoyed dancing, watching football, Westerns, and soap operas. He also treasured trips to Navarre Beach Park with his beloved wife, Elizabeth.

After moving to Florida, Winslow became a member of New Life Deliverance Temple Church (NLDTC) in Navarre. As his health began to decline, he remained connected to his faith and church family by watching church services via livestream from home.

Winslow will be remembered for his warm heart, his love of family, his sense of humor, his appreciation for music and dancing, and his ability to make everyone around him feel like family. His presence brought people together, and the memories he created with those he loved will continue to live on.

Winslow is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Elizabeth Smith; his brother, William Smith; his sons, Daryl and Nicholas; his daughter, Michael; and his stepsons, Noel and Ian Butcher. He is also survived by six grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Taft and Lora Smith; his sisters, Eloise Petty and Duts Smith; his brother, Calvin Smith; and his son, Courtney Smith.

Winslow’s life was one of service, family, hard work, love, and lasting memories. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.