Clarine Carver Smith

Clarine Carver Smith, a lifelong resident of Haywood County and member of Hemphill Baptist Church, passed away on January 10, 2026, at the age of 92, surrounded by love, care, and the quiet presence of those who meant the most to her. She was the daughter of Charlie Lee and Edna Parton Carver, who passed in 1964 and 2017 respectively.

Clarine was a gentle woman of deep devotion to family, finding her greatest joy in time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had a special gift for making others feel cherished, whether through a thoughtful gesture, a warm smile, or a perfectly timed joke. Her sense of humor brought light to even the hardest days, and laughter followed her wherever she went. Ask her grandchildren for some of her funniest jokes.

She found beauty and peace in the natural world, especially in birds and flowers. Watching birds at her feeders, tending her flower garden, or simply noticing a colorful bloom along the way brought her a quiet happiness that reflected her gentle spirit. She also loved riding through the mountains to soak in the fall colors, a tradition that brought her both joy and a sense of wonder at God’s great handiwork.

Other loved ones who preceded her in death include their daughter, Kathy Jean Paul, Clarine’s sister Betty Jean Davis, and brother-in-law Dan Davis. Clarine is survived by her high school sweetheart and best friend, William H. Smith, her husband of 75 years. This special relationship was a partnership built on love, devotion, and a lifetime of shared memories. Other family members include her son; Tom (Shirley); her cherished grandchildren; Ian Paul (Jennifer), Rebecca Paul (Benjamin), Nathan Smith (Hannah), Carla Smith (Josh); and great-grandchildren; Breanna Paul, Haven Paul, McKinley Fisher, and Raigan Fisher.

The Smith family would like to thank Halley and Betty Jo Grant, as well as members of First Baptist Church, for the many meals provided during the four months of hospice care. Heartfelt appreciation also goes to Haywood Hospice for the love, care and comfort given especially by Nurse Crystal, CNA Cynthia, and Social Worker Sarah.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 14, in the chapel of Garrett Funerals and Cremations with the Reverend Billy Ferguson officiating. Burial will follow at Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Since Clarine loved nature so much, those wishing to honor her memory are invited to visit the funeral home’s website at www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com to plant a tree in her name.