Renee Smith Simmons

She was born on November 26, 1960 in Ahoskie, NC to James Ralph Smith and Elizabeth Smithwick Smith. She was valedictorian of Lawrence Academy in 1978, graduated from East Carolina in 1982 with honors, and earned her master’s degree in Textiles from the University of Tennessee in 1984. She was an excellent scholar and teacher.

Reneé’s two surviving sons were her pride and joy. She was a dedicated mother, completely invested in her children. For the last seventeen years she worked at the law firm Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe and Garofalo. She was beloved by her colleges.

She was preceded in death by her father James, son Thomas, and nephew Ethan. She is survived by her children Perry and Landon, mother Elizabeth, sister Angela, brother Randy, niece Ellie, nephew James, daughter in law Taylor, and former husband Brette.

Reneé found joy in fashion, books, travel, dance, puzzles, sunflowers, hiking, and Hallmark movies. She had impeccable style, loved to host and cook for her family and walk her grand puppy Juno at Umstead Park. Her life was full and she will be dearly missed.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at 2:00 pm in the Chapel of Mitchell Funeral Home, officiating was Rev. Doug Gamble.

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