February 11, 2021, 93, Goldsboro –

On February 11, Kathleen Powell “Tootsie” Smith passed away at the age of 93. Tootsie was born on November 30, 1927 in Goldsboro, NC to Grace Meekins Powell and William Kirksey Powell. She was raised in Goldsboro along with her siblings all of whom preceded her in passing; William Kirksey “Pay” Powell, Dean Cobb, and Peggy Capps. She was married to Norborne Gee “Boye” Smith Jr. who passed away in 2014.

Tootsie was a good athlete who believed that anything was possible if you were committed. In her youth, she was an accomplished swimmer and was able to travel the country (and to Cuba) with her swim team, at a time when travel was considered a luxury. Later in life, she was a very competent golfer, a game which she and Boye played regularly. When tennis became a popular sport in the 1970’s she took up tennis and became a worthy opponent in that game as well.

She was a very good bridge player and enjoyed playing with her many bridge friends locally. In her later years, she would play bridge online and enjoyed making friends from all around the world as a result. Tootsie also had a passion for painting and her watercolors adorn the walls of their home.

Tootsie was a lifelong member of St. Paul Methodist Church in Goldsboro and enjoyed seeing her friends when she attended church until very late in life.

Tootsie is survived by two children, Perrye Smith of Goldsboro and Gee Smith of Philadelphia, five grandchildren, Westley Dean and Tripp Dail both of Goldsboro, Lindley Kathleen Smith of Austin, Texas, Carter Smith and Gee Smith IV, both of Philadelphia. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Ella and Kaley Dean of Goldsboro.

The family would like to extend their most sincere thanks to Sonya Mozingo, who was a caregiver and friend to both Tootsie and Boye in their later years and also to Essie Tatum, Sheila Dixon, Julia Russell and Angelina Jackson who provided care to Tootsie as well. The family also thanks 3HC for their assistance.

Given the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be a private service for family members. Later in the year, the family will hold a celebration of life so that all of Tootsie’s friends and family can remember her.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.