Dorothy Ashley Smith

Mrs. Dorothy (Dottie) Ashley Smith, 85, of 188 John Emerson Road, Siler City, died at her home on Sunday, March 11, 2012. Dottie was the wife of Rev. C. R. Smith, Jr. who preceded her in death on March 18, 2005. Mrs. Smith was born August 15, 1926 in Williamston, SC, the youngest of ten children born to Samuel Joshua and Linnie Martin Ashley of Anderson County, SC. She was a graduate of Lander University where she received her degree in Elementary Education. Dottie, a master teacher for 40 years, began her career in South Carolina. When Rev. Smith was called to the pastorate of First Baptist Church in 1962, Dottie accepted a teaching position in Siler City. She continued until her retirement in 1991. She was a dedicated teacher and influenced many young lives throughout her career. Mrs. Smith was a member of the First Baptist Church of Siler City. She was a Sunday School teacher of various classes through the years, most recently the Esther Class of which she was a member. She was also a member of the Barrow Mission Group and was currently the leader of the Mission Study and Prayer Committee. Dottie was very dedicated to missions and had been an active member of the WMU serving as Director, member of the Prayer and Program committees. She taught many creative and meaningful mission studies. When the church began a food pantry for the needy, Dottie was a faithful volunteer and continued to serve at the West Chatham Food Pantry from its opening until her health began to decline. Dottie was also a member of Joy in the Morning, the Senior Adult group of the church. Mrs. Smith is survived by her son, Randy Smith of West Palm Beach, FL, two grandsons, Spencer Smith of Fort Myers, FL and Blake Smith of Coral Gables, FL, one sister, Miriam Lark and husband Earl of Anderson, SC and several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends Tuesday, March 13, 2012 from 6-8 PM at Smith & Buckner Funeral Home, 230 North Second Avenue, Siler City, NC 27344. The funeral service will be Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church, 314 North Second Avenue, Siler City with Rev. Tony Capehart and Dr. Leon Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Chatham Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 314 N. 2nd Ave., Siler City, NC 27344. Online condolences may be made at www.pughfuneralhome.com.