Mrs. Harriet Jane Helms Smith, age 86, of Marshville, NC, peacefully passed away on Oct. 28, 2026, at Autumn Care Nursing Home. Born on February 7, 1940, in Monroe, NC, she was the cherished daughter of the late Lawrence David Helms and Evelyn Thomason Helms.She was also preceded in death by her devoted husband of nearly 46 years, Larry B. Smith, Sr., who passed away in 2006 and her sister, Diane Helms West.

Harriet spent her life dedicated to her family, her church, and her community. A vibrant and outgoing soul, she truly never met a stranger. She had a rare gift for making anyone feel like an old friend within minutes of meeting them. Her warmth and infectious energy extended deeply into her community, where she shared her lifelong love of music by playing the organ for her church and for the residents at the local nursing home. She also brought her leadership to the Union County Library Board, where she proudly served as chairman for many years. When she wasn't serving others, she could always be found sharing laughter and lively conversation with her beloved bridge club friends. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who found her greatest joy in spending time with her loved ones. Her legacy of hospitality, service, friendship, and home-cooking will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

She is survived by her devoted children, Allison Gordon (John) and Larry Smith, Jr.(Melissa); her adored grandchildren, Seth, Aaron, Leah, and Susannah Gordon and Camden, Russell, and Jacob Smith, along with their spouses; step granddaughters, Shelby and Madison and their families; and her precious great-grandchildren, Lynn and Jean (daughters of Seth), Harrison and Clark (sons of Camden), Cayden, Connor, Canon, and Caroline (children ofRussell), Ellie (daughter of Aaron), Kate and Halston (children of Jacob); brother, Kenneth D. (Buz) Helms (Betsy); sister-in-law, Chears Smith Wilms, and brother-in-law, Kenneth West.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Atrium Health – Union and Atrium Hospice for their compassionate care and support during her final days.

The family will receive friends from 10:30-11:30 on Saturday in the sanctuary of Austin Grove Baptist Church. A graveside funeral service to honor the life of Harriet will be 12 noonon October 31, 2026, at Marshville City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Austin Grove Baptist

Church in Marshville or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Morgan & Son Funeral Home is caring for the family of Mrs. Smith.