January 16, 2024, 57, LaGrange —
April 18, 1966 – January 16, 2024
Lori S. Smith, 57, was welcomed into the arms of her Savior and reunited with her mother and son on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. She was born in Wayne County to Buddy Smith of LaGrange and the late Marie Vinson Smith on April 18, 1966. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her son, Carlyle Scott Smith; grandparents, Mildred Smith, H.H. and Hazel Vinson; and father-in-law, Reynolds Smith.
Faith was a guiding light throughout Lori’s life. She was a lifetime member of Garris Chapel Church. She fulfilled many roles and served in any way she could. Lori had a heart for service and used her many gifts for the Lord. Most recently, following the death of her son, Lori began a women’s ministry at the church called WinGS (Women in God’s Service). This ministry allowed women to come together, share their stories, and receive encouraging words to help them in their lives. This ministry reached way beyond Garris Chapel and was a blessing to the community.
Faith led Lori’s life as she spent her career shaping young lives. She served as a teacher with Wayne County Public Schools for 29 years. All those years were spent teaching Kindergarten. She loved her students and teaching was her calling.
Lori’s faith became even more important as she faced many difficult times with the loss of her mother, and her son, and then dealing with her own sickness. Not only did her faith, not waiver, but she also sought to help, encourage, and love others. In April of 2020, she started a Facebook page called All Things Girlie where she would share tips on shopping, makeup, clothing, and jewelry. Lori was an example for others, as she always sought to look her best. She loved shopping and dressing well, so it was natural to share tips with others. After Carlyle’s death, this page became an opportunity to share God’s word through Scripture and devotions. Her goal was to buildup others through this Facebook page and she did just that for many women.
Family was very important to Lori and was instilled in her by her parents. She was very close to her cousins and they all helped her during her sickness. The family finds comfort in knowing they were there for Lori and never left her side. The birth of her granddaughter, Lyla Dawn, was a bright spot in her life. Time spent with her was the best and she enjoyed the opportunity to help spoil, love, and teach her.
Lori’s life was a testament to her faith, her courage, and most of all, her love. She was a gift and encouragement to more than she realized. Her legacy will continue to be a bright light for so many.
The family will receive friends on Friday, January 19, 2024, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the family life center at Garris Chapel Church followed by a service to celebrate Lori’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Rev. Adam Brinkley and Rev. Brad Mitchell officiating. Interment will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 20, 2024, in Fairview Cemetery, La Grange.
In addition to her father, Lori is survived by her husband of 27 years, Scott Smith; daughter, Malori Price; granddaughter, Lyla Dawn Smith; sister, Lynn Crumpler and husband, Jeff; nephew, Jeffrey Crumpler and wife, Emily; great nieces, Arden and Millie Grace Crumpler; and mother-in-law, Delia Smith.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given to the ministries of
WinGS or Threads of Love
Garris Chapel Church
823 Piney Grove Road
La Grange, NC 28551
Services are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange, NC.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.rousefh.com.
