Laverne Smith

Laverne Sophronia Whitley Smith, 94, of Oakboro, passed away Monday, March 20, 2023 at her home.

Laverne was born January 20, 1929 in Stanly County, North Carolina to the late D.P. Whitley and the late Emma Hinson Whitley.
She was also preceded in death by infant son, Nelson Smith and brother, John D. Whitley.

The graveside service will be held on Friday, March 24, 2023 at 2:00pm at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Oakboro officiated by Rev. Dr. Shad Hicks and Rev. Tab Whitley. Burial will immediately follow at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery at 17236 Frog Pond Road, Oakboro.

Survivors include husband of 75 years, Curtis H. Smith of the home; children, Joey (Kathy) Smith, Jana (Hunt) Gwyn, and Jera (Chris) Norwood; grandchildren, Jennifer Eudy, Jessica (Brian) Blackburn, Justin Eudy, Mallory Smith, Abby Smith, and Laven Norwood; great-grandchildren, Bayleigh, Dillon, Allie, and Emily; sister-in-law, Maxzelle Whitley.

Laverne cherished spending time with her family, she spent many years helping raise her grandchildren - supporting both children and grandchildren through school, sports, and personal events. She also enjoyed spending time at Twin Harbors with family. Laverne took much pride in her flower and vegetable gardens, she also canned homegrown vegetables and enjoyed making "goodies" with her grandchildren. Laverne enjoyed sewing, making her children's clothes and quilts for her grandchildren. Laverne was a fierce competitor when it came to game nights with family and friends. She also loved to read and work puzzles. Laverne was a devout Christian and a member at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church where she participated in the WMU, was a GA leader, taught Sunday School, and was VBS Director for many years. Laverne and Curtis volunteered over 20 years for the Meal Wheels Program and were active members of the Stanly County Senior Citizens group. They also volunteered for the Oakboro Historical Museum. Laverne began her work years at Roses in Albemarle when she was in high school, while there she met lifelong friend Mary Agnes Lowder. She worked at Wiscassett Hosiery Mill several years before quitting to become a homemaker and mother. Laverne also provided daycare services in her home for many children. She then went to work at Oakboro Elementary as teachers assistant until retiring in 1991.

The Smith family would like to express special thanks to Atrium Hospice, especially Suzanne McCarver and Kaye Lowery. The family would also like to thank Lynde Overcash and Dee White for providing care with such love, compassion, and support to the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church or Atrium Hospice of Union County, 700 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe, NC 28110.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Smith family.