Deloris Jean Smith

Deloris Jean Smith, beloved Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mom, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Great Great Grandmother & friend passed in her sleep, from a prolonged illness, on August 22, 2022, at Gabriel Manor Assisted Living Facility, in Clayton, NC. Dee, or DeeDee to her Grands, was born September 29, 1931 in Bluefield, WV to parents, preceded in death, Charles Edward & Maddie Martha Ball. She had six siblings, all preceded her in death, Jackie, Ralph, Willie Mae, Chris, her twin Dale, and Hazel. She was a loving and devoted wife of 39 years to William Lawrence Smith Sr, who preceded her in death on January 10, 1986. She leaves behind four beloved children, daughter Gale Diane Holland (George T Holland Sr), son William L. Smith Jr (E.J.), son Robert Eugene Smith Sr (Margaret Smith), and daughter Deborah Jean Smith, nine cherished Grandchildren, one of which preceded her in death, 12 Great Grandchildren, and 6 Great Great Grandchildren. Though only having a 9th grade education, she was the main force that contributed to the success and glory of the family business, Smith's Center & General Store. Her charm, grit, intellect, independence, wit, spunk and dedication to family, defined her as a woman capable of anything she put her mind to. She became an accomplished bowler, receiving numerous awards, trophies, and accolades throughout her life. She loved playing cards and was always the center of attention at all our family gatherings. She reminded so many of classic and iconic movie stars, a wonderful mixture of Audrey Hepburn, Ava Gardner and Marilyn Monroe; always carrying herself with dignity, grace, and elegance, looking her very best at all times. She was such a beautiful woman in all accounts, and will be remembered as a great matriarch of an adoring and loving family. DeeDee lived a full life that enriched all that were lucky enough to be in her orbit. She made each of us feel as if we alone were special and her favorite. Her legacy will be everlasting and will be a part of us, and future generations, forever. Until we all meet again for our next big family gathering, we will strive to make you proud and live a life that reflects how you lived yours. We love you so very much and are extremely honored to call you Mom, Dee, DeeDee, and friend. Your loving family...