Rachel Pophal

Rachel Smith Dills Pophal, 69, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Carolina East Medical Center.

A graveside service to honor Rachel’s life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, October 25th at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Newport, officiated by Rev. Joseph Seese.

Rachel was born on January 19, 1956, in Morehead City, NC, to the late Troy D. Smith and Mary Emma Harris Smith. She enjoyed a vibrant career in local establishments, including bartending at Sand Bar & Hoppys in Atlantic Beach and later managing the Pantry Convenient Store, where she was known for her dedication and kindness.

Rachel will be fondly remembered as a loving wife, a devoted sister, and a fun aunt, who cherished her family deeply.

Those remaining to cherish her memory are her sisters, Tracy Marie Smith of Newport, NC, Sandra S. Matthews of Goldsboro, NC, and Kathy Taylor of Newport, NC; nieces and nephew, Brandy Nicole Honeycutt, Amanda Lee Heath (Steven Karpinksi), Stephen Taylor, Bobbie Taylor, and Mary Taylor; great-nephew, Johnny Ray Willis; and her favorite feline, Cat.

In addition to her parents, Rachel was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Micheal “Mike” Alvin Pophal; brother, Troy L. Smith; and niece, Candy Lynn Brown.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.