Nancy Vick Smith

RICH SQUARE, NC - Nancy Vick Smith, a beloved member of the Rich Square community, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by her family. Born on September 8, 1943, in the quaint town of Roxobel, North Carolina, Nancy's life was a beautiful testament to love, family, and perseverance.
A proud graduate of West Bertie High School in 1961, Nancy laid the foundations of a life filled with love and purpose. She married her high school sweetheart, James Troy Smith, Sr., and together they embarked on a journey of 61 unforgettable years. In her early years, Nancy worked with Dr. Outland as a dental assistant, however, in 1984, she and Troy, Sr. formed Troy's Forklift Service in Rich Square, which they grew into the largest forklift service company in Eastern North Carolina. Alongside her beloved Troy, Nancy not only built a successful business but also cultivated a legacy of dedication and hard work that will inspire future generations.
She was married to her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Troy Smith, for 61 wonderful years. Their marriage was a true partnership filled with love and mutual respect. They shared many happy moments together, particularly enjoying "dates" that often involved picking up forklifts or parts for their thriving business.
Nancy had a passion for life that was evident in her many interests. She loved shopping excursions to Wal-Mart every Saturday morning with her cherished granddaughters, fondly referred to as her "grand-girls." Gardening and spending time outdoors brought her great joy. Along with her outdoor flowers, Nancy also had a large selection of indoor orchids of various sizes and colors, that she and her family enjoyed. She had a love for NASCAR racing and Dale Earnhardt, Sr. held a special place in her heart. In recent years, she took a liking to Kyle Larson and was super excited when he won his second NASCAR Cup Series championship this year.
A dedicated member of the Rich Square Methodist Church, Nancy found comfort and community within its walls. Her faith was an important part of her life, guiding her through both joyous and challenging times.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Horace and Ethel Vick; her beloved husband, James Troy Smith, Sr.; and her sisters, Wanda Johnson and Aleen Boone. Nancy leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her sons, Troy Smith, Jr. and wife Kathy of Rich Square, and Daryl Smith of Rich Square; her grandchildren, Judson Smith of Rich Square, Lauralee Hassell and husband Matt of Youngsville, Meghan Vick and husband Mark of Woodland, and Stacey Spence and husband Brandon of Raleigh; and her great-grandchildren, Blair, Ethan, Oliver, Haley, and Lincoln. She is also survived by her sister, Edith Vick Wallace of Scotland Neck.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Gretchen Fleetwood, Laverne Suggs, Mekia Shoulars, and Dorothy Taylor for the compassionate care and support they have shown Nancy and her family during the last few years.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 1:00 pm at the Rich Square Methodist Church, located at 300 South Main Street, Rich Square, North Carolina, with Rev. Dusty Sprouse officiating. A visitation will follow in the church fellowship hall, where friends and family can gather to remember and honor Nancy's life.
Memorial donations may be made directly to the Rich Square Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 958, Rich Square, North Carolina 27869, in honor of Nancy's enduring spirit and commitment to her community or online by clicking here.
Nancy Vick Smith will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
The Smith family has entrusted Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Rich Square Chapel with the funeral arrangements. The family invites friends and loved ones to leave their condolences at www.garrettsykesfs.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nancy Vick Smith, please visit our floral store.To make a memorial donation, please visit the donations section of this obituary.