Nita Rose Smith, 88, of Connelly Springs, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at UNC Health Care, Blueridge.

Mrs. Smith was born December 27, 1937, in Burke County, a daughter of the late Rex and Ila Lail Smith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Ray Smith and a son, Jerome Smith.

A lifelong resident of Connelly Springs, NC, the only things Nita loved more than the birds which frequented her numerous feeders were the Lord and her family. Nita was a longtime member of Connelly Springs First Baptist Church and faithfully served in many roles, including pianist and organist. She loved hymns and could play many of them by heart.

After retiring from many years of loyal service at Valdese General Hospital, Nita continued to enjoy baking and candy making, two hobbies she was well known for as well as being renowned for her famous Christman punch. In addition, she enjoyed both needlepoint and cross-stitch. Her beautiful projects grace the walls of friends and family alike. In more recent years, you could find Nita on her sofa reading a book, doing a word search or playing Scrabble against her toughest opponent, herself. Nita’s presence will be missed at the Lucky Dog, the Members Credit Union, Valdese branch, and Ingles Grocery store, where she and her sister, Elane were regular visitors, every Wednesday. Nita was happiest when enjoying weekly Thursday night suppers and Sunday lunch with her nieces, Natalie and Lori, and her nephew Todd. She especially looked forward to holiday events, as well as birthdays and family celebrations, which brough her great-nieces and nephews to town.

Having Holley, Lucas Lindsey, Samantha, Chafin and Eleanor pay a visit was always a memorable time for her. Friends, family and neighbors will miss Nita’s sweets and their conversations with her around her kitchen table, but their hearts are warm knowing she is now at home in heaven with her Lord, her husband and her son.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

At Nita’s request, no services will be held. The family will be at the Cornwell Residence 170 Campus St., Connelly Springs, NC 28612.