(Hester Lee) Bernice “Bernie” Buckner Smith of Granite Falls, NC passed away February 23, 2024 at the age of 84.
Born in Cowpens, SC, a daughter to the late Reverend Erastus Wellington Buckner and Jessie Cumi Price Buckner of Blacksburg, SC. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Augustus Smith, Jr., and three siblings; brothers, James and Harold, and sister Gladys.
Mrs. Smith is survived by her children, Christopher Smith and wife, Beth, of Newton, NC, daughter Jennifer “Jenny” Thomas and mother-encouraged-soon-to-be husband, fiancé, Jeff Stapleton, of Olathe, KS, and Jason Smith, and wife Liz Pahl of Athens, OH, as well her beloved grandchildren Jessica, Jordan, Jacob, Sofia, and Vera; and great-grandchild Lydia.
Bernice Smith was a graduate of Winthrop College for Women, and enjoyed dedicating her life to filling those around her with joy and happiness as a limitless wife, mother, and grandparent. She was gifted in arts and crafts, or anything created with her hands. But her passion was family through enduring love and encouragement and the spoiling of grandkids, while in her final years she basked in dominating opponents at bingo. Her spirit, kindness, and strength will forever remain a light for her family and friends.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, February 28, 2024 from 2:00PM to 4:00PM at Mackie Funeral Service in Granite Falls, NC.
A graveside service will follow on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 1:00PM in the Hickory Grove Cemetery in Hickory Grove, SC.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carolina Caring Hospice at https://www.carolinacaring.org/give.
An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.mackiefh.com.
Mackie Funeral Service and Cremations is assisting the family.
Dear family of Bernice, Bud and I just found out an hour ago of Bernice passing and we missed the receiving. we are sorry we didn”t get to be there. I had a knee replacement four weeks ago and haven”t been out much. Bernice and I worked together at school and became good friends and Charles and Bud were golf buddies and the four of us were good friends. Bernice was such a sweet loving person. .We lost a precious light here but heaven gained a bright light. We will keep all of you in our prayers and thoughts . Bernice and Charles are missed so much as we loved them. Our hearts are saddened ,however they are together again and we take comfort in that. Bud and Willa Deane Roberts
My love to each of you – you’ll always miss your parents – I’m so sorry for her loss and yours has to be heart breaking . With love, Ruth Shugart Gladden
My sympathy and prayers are with you during this sad time in the life of your family 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏. My medical condition prevents me from visiting with your family but my heart ❤️ is with you!Prayers will continue 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️ Cousins will always be remembered but never forgotten! Love Alice Yount Hawley (cellie’s /M P’s baby daughter in Wilson.
I worked with Bernice at GFES for many years and became friends. My prayers are with the families. She was a most gracious lady.
Dear Jason, Liz, girls, and family — We are saddened at the loss of Bernie and send our deepest sympathies and comfort to you all. We see her eyes and smile in Sofia and Vera so clearly! Grateful for each of you. We love you and are holding you.
I’m so sorry, Bernice was like my second moma growing up. I will be thinking and praying fii out r each of you in the days to come. RIP Bernice❤️🙏❤️
Jenny,
I was so sorry to hear of Bernice’s passing. She was a beautiful person and my favorite aunt. My heart goes out to your family.
Jenny and family- I am so very sorry for your loss. I know you are grieving but hope soon you will be able to see and think of her with happiness. Sending my thoughts and prayers.
To the family of Bernice “Bernie” Smith we send our condolences to you all. Please know that you all are in our continued prayers. Jennifer if you need anything please know that I am just a call away. I will be praying for you all.