Susan Morgan Smith

Susan Morgan Smith, 76, of High Point, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 30th, at 2:00 p.m. at Jamestown United Methodist Church, 403 East Main Street, Jamestown, NC. The family respectfully requests that attendees wear their favorite shade of purple in honor of Susan.

Susan was born in Norfolk, VA on April 29, 1949, and was the daughter of the late George Brooks Morgan, Jr. and Sue Payne Morgan. She spent her formative years in Sunbury, NC before attending Greensboro College where she earned a BA degree in Speech and Drama in 1971. It was during her time at Greensboro College that her passion for theatre became apparent, as she actively participated in and assisted with various theatrical productions.

Following graduation, Susan went on to become a teacher at Ben L. Smith High School in Greensboro, where she taught drama, speech, and remedial reading. In 1975, she was recognized as "Teacher of the Year" by the school's faculty members, a testament to her exceptional work in the field of drama. During her tenure, she directed several musicals, including "Guys and Dolls," "Bye Bye Birdie," and "Rock 'n' Roll."

As Susan transitioned from teaching to a career in the business world, she discovered a new passion for the insurance industry. For over 30 years, she worked with companies including Jefferson Pilot and Lincoln Financial. As an insurance agent, Susan continued to positively impact the lives of others, assisting clients in planning for their future.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Susan was dedicated to giving back to her community. In addition to volunteering with a number of local organizations, she also served as a Sunday school teacher at Jamestown United Methodist Church where she was a longtime member. Her selfless nature and willingness to lend a helping hand earned her a reputation as someone who was always there to inspire, motivate, and support those in need.

Above all, Susan's love for her family was the sustaining force throughout her remarkable life. As a loving mother, grandmother (affectionately known as Meme), sister, daughter, and aunt, she was always present to support her loved ones, attending numerous ball games, dance and music recitals, and graduations. Her unwavering love and support have left an indelible mark on the lives of those she touched.

Susan is survived by her children, Ray Blaine Smith, Jr. and his wife, Holly Grubb Smith, of High Point, and Jennifer Smith Layne and her husband, Jonathan Wade Layne, of Cary; sister, Brooks Morgan Westerhoff and her husband, David Owen Westerhoff, of Greensboro; four grandchildren, Trey Blaine Smith, Evelyn Gray Smith, Scarlett Rose Smith, and Julianne Brooks Layne; and her niece, Morgan Mary Westerhoff of Charlotte, as well as many loving family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Jamestown United Methodist Church, designated to Tender Loving Care, P.O. Box 339, Jamestown, NC 27282, Trellis Supportive Care (Palliative • Hospice • Family Support), 101 Hospice House Ln, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, or HD Reach, 2054 Kildare Farm Road #427, Cary, NC 27518, or to the charity of one's choice.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate employees and medical staff at Trellis Supportive Care and BrightStar Care, who provided exceptional care and support to Susan.

And a special thank you to Colene Thomas. As Susan’s personal caregiver over the last two years, Colene served as a valuable source of support and companionship.