Smithie Lynn Williams: Whiteville

1959 – 2020

     Smithie Lynn Williams of Whiteville, affectionally known by many as “Smit,” went to be with her heavenly Father on Tuesday, Dec. 8, at the New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

     Lynn was born in Columbus County on Sept. 18, 1959 to her parents JC and Alice Williams. She graduated from Williams Township School and earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Pembroke State University.

     Lynn was a dedicated member of Forest Lawn Baptist Church. She treasured her church family. Perhaps her greatest calling on life was working in Celebrate Recovery, a mission group focused on a Christ-centered approach to counseling individuals faced with an array of struggles.

     Lynn was a two-sport athlete during her high school years and she had a successful college career as starting catcher for the Pembroke State Lady Braves Softball Team. She loved all sports and she cheered passionately for her beloved North Carolina Tarheels. The only time she was more excited about athletics is when she had the opportunity to root for W. T., Bryant, Allison, and Jon as they competed. She loved them as if they were her own and she was so proud.

     Anyone who knew Lynn would testify that she would give everything she had if someone needed something. She enjoyed preparing meals for her friends and family. She would put away canned vegetables, enough for many to enjoy, but she knew her family would come by and sneak a few jars away. We will all miss her 20-plus chocolate layered cakes.

     Lynn was predeceased by her mother, Alice Bryant Williams.

     Lynn is survived by her father, J C Williams of the home; a sister, Kim W. Edwards and husband Worley of Chadbourn; a brother, Jonathan Williams and wife Michele of Tabor City; three nephews, W.T. Edwards and wife Brittany of Whiteville, Bryant Edwards and wife Kaitlyn of Chadbourn, and Jon Williams of Tabor City; one niece, Allison Edwards of Whiteville; and one great niece, Gray Edwards of Whiteville.

     She is also survived by her most loyal friend and German Shepard pet, Grace.

     A graveside service was planned for noon Friday, Dec. 11, at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Celebrate Recovery, c/o Western Prong Baptist Church, 167 Peacock Rd., Whiteville, NC 28472.

     A guest register is available here.