Esther Heller Smith

Esther Heller Smith went home to heaven on August 19, 2023. She was born on May 4, 1933 in Arendal, Norway. She came to the United States with her family at 15 years of age. She graduated from high school in Stamford, Connecticut and attended Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. She married Grover A. Smith, Jr. in 1956 and together they raised 4 daughters.

Esther loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and served Him daily. She was an exemplary Christian, mentoring and leading others to Christ. She was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend, neighbor, choir member, Sunday school teacher, youth leader, employee, and Peace Corps representative in Cameroon, Africa. Those closest to her cherished her role and dedication to being a fierce prayer warrior. Although the earthly void left with her passing can never be filled, we should follow her example and dedicate ourselves to earnest daily prayer and submission to God - a legacy she would be proud of.

Esther is preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Bertha Heller; her husband of 59 years, Grover A. Smith, Jr.; sister Gladys Stolen; and granddaughter Chelsea Nicole Smith.

She is survived by daughters; Miriam Henderson (Robbie) of Glade Valley, NC; Sharon May (Fred) of Greensboro, NC; Carrie Vineyard (Wayne) of Austin, TX; Sonya Beacham (Jimmy DeVane) of Wilmington, NC and honorary bonus daughter; Cindy Ryan of Vermontville, NY. Surviving grandchildren include Lauren Glader (Jon); Elizabeth Richards (Jonathan); and Smith Beacham (Isobela). She is also survived by sister Evelyn Bruno, and great granddaughter Eleanor Esther Richards.

The family would like to thank the Authoracare Hospice staff and all of the “angels” at Friends Home in Greensboro for the radiant display of love and care shown to Esther and her daughters during Esther’s years there and especially in her final sacred days here on earth. You have been the hands and feet of Christ and we are grateful for your divine assignment in her life.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday September 16th at 2pm at Harnett Memorial Cemetery (50 E Cornelius Harnett Blvd, Lillington, NC). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bible Broadcasting Network (PO Box 7300 Charlotte, NC 28241) or to the Friends Home Employee Campaign (925 New Garden Road, Greensboro, NC 27410).

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