Sue Lanier Smith

Sue was born in Lillington, N.C. on April 6, 1928 to Merman and Rosabell Lanier. She graduated from Lillington High School and continued on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from East Carolina Teachers College, where she met the love of her life, John H. Smith Jr.

Sue was married John on June 17 1951; they were happily married 71 years. Together they welcomed three children.

John and Sue spent the majority of their life in Cary, N.C. Sue worked as a teacher for many years, and especially enjoyed teaching children how to read. She later went to work with her husband in their Insurance Agency. When they retired, they moved to Lake Gaston where they made many lakeside memories. In 1998, they moved to Gates Four Golf & Country Club in Fayetteville, NC where they made countless friends and were active members at Village Baptist Church.

Sue enjoyed singing in the church choir, knitting, reading, playing bridge and other games with her friends, playing golf, riding in her pontoon boat and spending time with her family. She was actively involved at First Baptist Church in Cary, N.C. She was also a very active member of the Pilot club of Cary.

Shortly after the birth of her first grandson, Sue became known as “Nina.” Nina was loved dearly by her four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was an avid sports fan and loved puzzles, books, and a good card game. Her family admired how much she enjoyed the “little things.” Nina was the pillar to our family, setting the example of a Godly, loving wife and mother from start to finish.

Sue is survived by her beloved husband of 71 years, John Smith. Her children; Steve Smith, and Suzy Speas. Her Grandchildren; Jonathan Smith, Whitney Beck, Ashton Ash, and Stryker Stubbs. Her Great grandchildren; Reese, Paisley, Liberty, Avery, Gabriella, Gunner, Jamison, Jason, Josh, and other family and friends.

Sue is preceded in death by her son, Timothy D. Smith.

Sue’s celebration of life ceremony will be held on January 7, 2023 at 11 AM in The Fireside Room at Village Baptist Church, Fayetteville, N.C.

Apex Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith Family.