Katherine Smith

Benson, NC: Mrs. Katherine Stephenson Smith, age 93, of 495 Sanders Road, Benson died Saturday, September 21, 2013, at UniHealth Care in Raleigh. Funeral services will be 11:00AM Tuesday, September 24, 2013, at White Memorial Presbyterian Church, Willow Spring. Officiating will be the Rev. Dr. Duane Hix. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.      Mrs. Smith was born November 4, 1919 in Johnston County. She was preceded in death by her husband, Nolan Smith, and her mother, Floy Gertrude Stephenson. She was a 1936 graduate of Cleveland High School.     The center of Katherine's life was her family, her church, and her community.  Her greatest joy in life was her family. She married Nolan David Smith on December 18, 1941, and raised four sons with Nolan on their farm, until his death in 1976.      Katherine was a charter member of White Memorial Presbyterian Church, Willow Spring NC, serving many years as a Ruling Elder, Clerk of Session, Church Treasurer and was always ready to teach Sunday school or vacation bible school to any age.      An avid community historian, Katherine welcomed everyone into her home to spend time with her and discuss community and family history.      In her professional life, Katherine worked for over 20 years at Belks department stores, retiring in 1990. After retirement, Katherine cared for and created many wonderful memories with her beloved grandchildren. Katherine also continued to work on the family farm, making many new friends during strawberry seasons.      Surviving are sons & daughters-in-law, David & Pam Smith of Raleigh, Myron & Sarah Smith of Benson, Robin Smith of Raleigh, and Don & Teresa Smith of Benson; Grandchildren & Spouses, Eric Smith, Chris & Arlene Smith, Mitch Smith, Farris Smith, Joshua Smith, Laura Katherine Smith, and Lisa & Steven Penny; great grandchildren, Devin & Reagan Penny and Nolan Smith.      Family will receive friends at White Memorial Presbyterian Church fellowship hall from 10:00AM to 10:45AM Tuesday prior to the service.      Flowers are welcomed; however memorials may be made to White Memorial Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 1459 White Memorial Church Road, Willow Spring, NC  27592.      Katherine was a loving mother and devoted Christian.  God gave Katherine a gift.  And she put it to good use.  Katherine will be cherished and missed by her family and all those who were fortunate to have known her.