Bessie Ruth Smith

Mrs. Bessie Ruth Smith, age 76, of Pittsboro, NC transitioned to eternal rest on Monday, December 30, 2024, at her residence. 

The Obituary

Bessie Ruth Smith was born in Lawrence, South Carolina, on February 20, 1948. She moved to the Southeast Side of Detroit with her family as a child. She was educated in Detroit Public Schools and attended Southeastern High School. She had a broad group of friends from the neighborhood, where she was a well-known babysitter and hair stylist. Bessie accepted Christ at an early age and grew up in Detroit’s Greater Mountain View Missionary Baptist Church, pastored by the late Rev. Edward Smith. 

In 1964, Bessie married the love of her life, Richard Smith Sr., also from South Carolina, whom she met at church. For over 60 years Bessie was the definition of a faithful and dedicated wife. Together they brought their dreams to reality, creating a beautiful life, including traveling and cruising the globe together. The crown jewel was their two children, Richard Jr. and Kimberly Yvette, whom she never stopped talking about.

The ultimate socialite, Bessie organized fashion shows, social events, card parties, and exotic trips for her wide network of friends. Once her children were older, Bessie began employment at the world renowned J.L. Hudson’s department store. She quickly excelled and rose through the ranks to Human Resources management. Here she expanded her community of friends who remained near and dear through the decades. 

Bessie embodied being an avid and creative cook and baker; she could frequently be found baking exquisite cakes and cookies to the delight of family and friends. She had a passion for designing clothes, crocheting, and interior decorating. She took great pride in curating beauty around her, particularly loving her vibrant flowers, gardening, and decorating. She was a talented seamstress and craft artist, cultivating this unique skill set at a very young age. In her later years she became known as an accomplished quilt maker, her work ever popular at local craft shows. She even handmade decorative face masks for family and friends during the COVID-19 epidemic.

She loved to share her life and her works with family and friends, always striving to mark special occasions. She especially loved the Christmas holiday and made sure her tree was impeccably adorned with the most beautiful, unique, and intricate ornaments she could create, or money could buy. She was always the first to volunteer to organize celebrations commemorating landmark milestones including birthdays and graduations and would always send the most meaningful cards and gifts. 

In 2000, Bessie and Richard moved from Detroit to Anderson, South Carolina to be closer to extended family and to enjoy a warmer climate. While living in South Carolina, Bessie and Richard re-connected with many of Richard’s high school classmates. In 2016, as Bessie’s health declined, she and Richard moved to Pittsboro, North Carolina to be closer to their children.

Despite her health challenges, Bessie persevered, continuing with her sewing and quilting artistry. Throughout her life, her devoted husband Richard was there by her side through both the good and the challenging times, providing comfort and care to her. On Monday, December 30,2024 at home in Pittsboro, North Carolina having heard “Well Done,” at age 76, Bessie Ruth Smith answered the call and peacefully transitioned to her eternal home.

Bessie was preceded in death by her sisters, Bettye and Linda; and her parents, James and Lillie Wakefield.

Bessie is survived by her husband of sixty years, Richard Smith Sr.; daughter, Kimberly; son, Richard Jr.; daughter-in-law, Michelle; sisters, Carolyn (Dwight), Catherine, Deloras, Gloria, Jane (Steve); and a multitude of family and friends.

https://youtu.be/iYpBAveWIms

"We do not own copyrights to the background music"

Thank you for helping us protect the families and communities we serve.

Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home-Pittsboro, NC