Sallie Cornelia Smith Coward Buckner

Sallie Cornelia Smith Coward Buckner, 91, went home to Jesus on September 25^th, 2023, surrounded by family and loved ones.

Cornelia was born February 18, 1932, to William Ray Smith and Edna Marie Edwards Smith in Chatham County. She is preceded in death by her parents, as well as five brothers, Roland “Bill” Smith, Clyde Smith, Charles Smith, Max Smith, Sr., and Harold Smith: one sister, Helen Slaughter. She is also preceded by two husbands, James M. Coward and Earl Buckner; and two stepsons, Robert Earl Buckner (Teresa) and O’Carroll Buckner (Carolyn). She is survived by her two children: Sara Coward Culberson and Thomas Coward. There are three grandchildren: Jake Culberson (Madison), Victor Coward (Callie), and Tucker Coward (Maci). She had four great grandchildren: Waylon & Cheyenne Culberson, Carson Coward, and River Coward. She also had 5 step grandchildren and 4 step great grandchildren.

Cornelia retired after 25 plus years working in food service in the cafeteria at Chatham County Schools, JM, Paul Braxton, and Henry Siler Schools.  She also worked at Best Food Cafeteria.  

Cornelia was a member of Rehobeth United Methodist Church and attended Harmony Baptist Church as well.

Visitation service will be Thursday, September 28, 2023, from 11 AM to 1 PM at Smith & Buckner Funeral Home. Graveside service will be Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 3 PM at Rehobeth United Methodist in Ramseur, NC. Officiated by Reverend William Fields.

The family would like to thank Coventry House of Siler City, Universal Healthcare of Ramseur and Hospice of Randolph County.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations can be made to Hospice of Randolph County.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home is serving the Buckner family.

Online condolences may be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com