Bertha Marie Smith

Bertha Marie Smith, a beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, peacefully passed away on February 6, 2025, at the Robin Johnson House in Dallas, North Carolina, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on November 21, 1932, in Gaston County, North Carolina, where she spent her early years planting the seeds of a life rich in love and devotion.

Throughout her life, Bertha dedicated herself to her career in textiles, finding fulfillment in her work. However, her true legacy lies in the warm and nurturing home she created for her family. She was a devoted mother to her beloved children: Gail Farris, Denise Gwinn, Jimmy Walton (Sherri), Patty Kelly, alongside her special son-in-law, Daryl Towery. Bertha’s heart shone brightest when surrounded by her grandchildren—Shane (Kristy), Wesley (Elizabeth), Krystal (Zac), Heather, Tori (Gabe), Andrew, Brandon, and Camryn—and her great-grandchildren, Devin, Tommy, Hannah, Tyler, Rhyleigh, Hayden, and Asher, who brought immense joy and pride into her life.

Memories of Bertha are woven from moments spent attending church with her sister, sharing laughter, and embracing life's simple pleasures, such as her love for crossword puzzles, word finds, and her favorite treats—iced coffee from Dunkin Donuts and diet Mountain Dew. Her personality radiated warmth, making her a cherished sister and a steadfast support to those around her.

Bertha is preceded in death by her parents, Dock Register Smith and Ada Adams Smith, and her siblings: James Monroe Smith, Robert Lee Smith, Glenn Allen Smith, Eunice Ruth "Doris" Smith, and special daughter, Kathy Towery. Their memories live on in the stories shared by her family and friends, echoing Bertha's enduring spirit and love.

A visitation to honor Bertha will be held on February 13, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation in Gastonia, followed by a 2:00 p.m., Thursday, graveside service at Gaston Memorial Park,Veterans 3-A section. Pallbearers will be Daryl Towery, Tyler Sanders, Zac Bolch and Brandon Towery.

As we gather to celebrate the life of this remarkable woman, we remember not only the sorrow of her passing but also the wealth of love she bestowed upon all who knew her. Bertha Marie Smith will be dearly missed, forever cherished in our hearts, and remembered through the lives she so profoundly touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude’s’s Research Hospital

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com