Jean Smith

Mrs. Evelyn “Jean” Wilson Smith, age 88, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Saturday, May 27, 2017. She was born in Caldwell County on September 26, 1928 to the late Rufus Henry and Edna Elizabeth Abernathy Wilson. Other than her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, June Lee Smith, with whom she was married to for 65 years; her eldest son, Jefferson Lee Smith; four sisters, Thelma Beach, Alma Caudle, Elizabeth “Lib” Pipes, and Jean’s twin sister, Joyce Blackburn. Jean is survived by her son, Kenneth D. Smith and wife, Lynn of Lenoir, NC; three grandsons, David Smith and wife, Misti of Mt. Holly, NC; Sean Smith and wife, Melissa of Hudson, NC; and Ryan Smith and wife, Erica of Lexington, KY; five great-grandchildren, Dylan Smith and Carson Smith of Hudson; Brianna Smith and Mikayla Smith of Mt. Holly; and soon-to-be-born, Baby Girl Smith of Lexington, KY; a sister, Alta McGowan of Raleigh, NC; a brother, Joseph “Joe” Wilson and wife, Jennie of Lenoir, NC; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jean spent most of her adult life working in retail. She was employed by Spainhour, Inc., Penny’s, Belk, and Woolworths. She was one of the purchasing agents for Spainhour, Inc. in Lenoir and spent much time traveling to the Garment District in New York City. She loved her career and exemplified an excellent work ethic. Jean was a lifetime member of Lower Creek Baptist Church. She loved her Lord and served Him well alongside her church family. She served as GA Director, Training Union Director, was a member of the choir, and served on numerous church committees. She especially loved the ladies in her Sunday school class. She often shared with the family of the many ministry projects and helping those in need in which she and the ladies of her class were involved. Jean’s family will receive friends Monday, June 5, 2017 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall of Lower Creek Baptist Church. A graveside service to honor Jean will be held Tuesday, June 6, 2017 at Lower Creek Baptist Church Cemetery beginning at 11:00 a.m., with the Reverend Larry Gilbreath officiating. Jean’s family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Grandview Villa Assisted Living and the staff of Medi-Hospice for taking excellent care of her. You are the best! The family respectfully requests memorials be sent to Grandview Villa Assisted Living, 2544 Grandview Circle, SW, Lenoir, NC 28645.