Obituary of Rachel Christine Smith

Rachel Christine York Smith, 97, of the Toothollow Community of Bryson City, NC went home on Saturday, April 29, 2023. She was the last surviving daughter of 15 children born to Jim and Sarah Lindsay York. She grew up in the Deep Gap area of the Alarka Community. Rachel was married to Jack C. Smith for 65 years before his death in 2006. Together they had five children; Christine Hoyle (Vernon, deceased) of Forest City, NC; Buford Smith (Robbie, deceased) of Bryson City, NC; Doyle Smith (Frances) of Bryson City, NC; Jackie Talley (Len) of Seneca, SC; Perry Smith (Robin) of Hot Springs, NC. She has nine grandchildren, Cindy Fuller (Chris), Kim Drieboltz (Peter), Jeff Smith, Travis Smith, Hannah Smith (Manuel Maples), Natalie Smith (Tony Gaddis), Pete Allison, Brad Allison (deceased) and Lane Smith. In addition she has nine great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren. Rachel was a devoted and much loved wife, mother, and grandmother. She valued hard work and worked hard all her life. Her beautiful flower gardens were a source of joy and pride. She was quick to laugh and enjoyed large gatherings with family and friends. Everyone misses her apple pie, chicken and dumplings, and her signature hot Russian tea during the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays. She was a dedicated member of the Bryson City Church of God where she could usually walk to almost all the services. She will live forever in our loving memories. Psalm 147:3 “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Funeral services will be held at 2:30 pm Wednesday, May 3, 2023 in the chapel of Crisp Funeral Home. Rev. Marty Pressley will officiate with burial in Swain Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1:30 – 2:30 pm Wednesday at the funeral home.