Leola Poe Smith

Leola Poe Smith, 99, of Concord, went to be with Jesus the morning of Monday, January 22, 2024, with a smile on her face.

Leola was born April 25, 1924 in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late James Floyd Poe and the late Lillie Mae Wilburn Poe.  She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Smith; son, Michael Smith; grandson, Buddy Cline; daughter-in-law, Elaine Smith; and seven siblings.

Our family lost a huge matriarch. Leola lived up to the very moment she took her last earthly breath.  

She treasured her role as a mother, Mamaw and Doedoe. Leola had the ability to speak her mind unfiltered and taught us to always work hard to get where we wanted to be in life. Remembered for her kind giving heart and quick wit she would light up any room she entered. She enjoyed working on her puzzle books, watching Nascar races on Sundays and attending Church. She was a member of Eastside Missionary Baptist Church. She took pride in the pleasure her family had enjoying her famous pineapple cakes. Her presence was a source of comfort and happiness to her friends and family with whom she enjoyed spending time with. Our hearts are heavy, but our souls are strong, for we know she is at peace and her body is finally healed. Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, we will always carry her memory in our hearts.

The memorial service in celebration of Leola's life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Hartsell Funeral Home's Chapel in Concord, officiated by Rev. Tim Yates and Rev. Stephen Burrows. Burial will follow at West Concord Cemetery.  

Survivors include son, Bobby Smith of Mount Pleasant; daughter, Tondra Scott of Calabash; 5 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 6 great great-grandchildren; her beloved caregivers, John and Alisa Hatley, and granddaughter Whitney Martinez; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Eastside Missionary Baptist Church, 198 Elgin Ave., Concord 28025.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord is serving the Smith family.