Jean Ray Smith Freeman

Jean Ray Smith Freeman

March 6, 2026

Charlotte, North Carolina - Jean Ray Smith Freeman, entered her heavenly home on Friday, March 6, 2026. She was born in Burnsville, NC, daughter of James William Smith and Edna Emily Ray Smith.

Jean attended Mars Hill College and retired from the Henkel Corporation. She was a member of Pritchard Memorial Baptist Church, the Pilot Club and Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary. Jean served as President of Mecklenburg Baptist Association and trustee at Mars Hill University. She was a recipient of the Baptist Heritage Award.

Jean is survived by her nephew, Dennis Ray Renfro (Joyce); great-nephew, William Robert Renfro (Shannon); great-niece, Michele Lee Renfro (Peter); great-grandnephews, David Renfro, Jr. and Cameron Murray along with many cousins and friends. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her sisters, June Smith Renfro and Kate Smith Welch and nephew, William David Renfro, Sr.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Pritchard Church. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Jean to Pritchard Church, Attn: Helping Hands Ministry, 1117 South Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203 or Via Health Partners, 7845 Little Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28226.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.