Long lines of people flowed in and out of Emmanuel Church in Greenwood Monday as hundreds — possibly thousands — gathered to say goodbye to Chase Smith, a local legend who left a lasting impact on communities near and far.
Chase, 19, died April 4 after a six and a half year battle with Ewing’s sarcoma.
The Trafalgar teen made a name for himself locally as one of the top swimmers at Indian Creek High School, breaking several records and winning many titles.
His story garnered national attention when he married Sadie Smith, his best friend and love of his life, on April 29, 2020.
Locals showed up in droves at the celebration of life event, which was open to the public. Some waited an hour to pay their respects to Chase and his family. Lines spilled out of the main sanctuary and into the lobby Monday afternoon with hours still to go. The celebration of life was scheduled from noon to 8 p.m. at the Greenwood church.
Indiana Creek schools planned an eLearning day Monday to allow staff and students to attend the event.
Flower arrangements from people all over the community, and photos of Chase with his family and friends lined the front of the auditorium. A slideshow of photos accompanied by music played overhead.
Chase’s parents, Brad and Kelli, his sister, Kaitlin, and Sadie and her family stood at the front. They greeted each guest with long handshakes and hugs, and thanked everyone for coming.
The crowd spoke volumes to Chase’s legacy and the impact he made on the people around him, Kelli Smith said.
"He deserves it," Kelli Smith said. "He touched so many people."
Sadie Smith wasn’t surprised to see so many in attendance.
"I didn’t expect anything less," Sadie Smith said. "Chase touched my life in so many ways, and he deserves the world."
A funeral service is set for 3 p.m. today at Emmanuel Church Greenwood Campus, 1640 West Stones Crossing Road, and a live-stream will be available for family and friends to connect at the link, live.eclife.org.
A private burial will follow the church service.
Knowing Chase is leaving behind a legacy of faith, passion and strength helps ease the pain of losing him, Kelli Smith said.
"If we have to lose him, I want his legacy to go on forever," she said. "It makes him going through this worth it."
