Della Mary Ferguson Smith
February 12, 1940 – June 22, 2025

With hearts full of gratitude and reverence, we celebrate the extraordinary life and lasting legacy of Della Mary Ferguson Smith—a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, loyal sister, cherished aunt, faithful friend, and humble servant of the Lord—who entered eternal rest on Sunday, June 22, 2025.  Born on February 12, 1940, in Lenoir, North Carolina, to the late Walter and Gladys Ferguson, Della was raised with a strong foundation of faith, family, and service. These values became the pillars of her life and the legacy she passed down to everyone she loved.  Della was united in holy matrimony to Johnny Smith, her beloved husband of 68 beautiful years. Their union was a living testament to enduring love, patience, partnership, and the power of faith. Together, they built a home that welcomed everyone, nurtured many, and was filled with laughter, wisdom, and grace.

She was the devoted mother of her daughter, Sonya "Neicy" Smith of Greensboro, NC, and her beloved son, Terry Smith, who preceded her in death. Though Terry's earthly journey ended too soon, her love for him endured through every prayer and every cherished memory.  She was also blessed with her Chosen Daughters—women who were not her daughters by birth, but by love, friendship, and shared life: Myra Scott Moore of Morganton, NC, Dawnelle Kincaid Mayo (Barry) of Danville, VA, and Renee Harrison Rowe (Brian) of Colfax, NC. For over 50 years, they stood as sisters to Sonya and as daughters to Della—receiving her wisdom, her correction, her prayers, and her boundless love. Della embraced them wholly and gave them a mother's care, never drawing a line between "mine" and "yours," only extending arms of grace and affection.
Her love as a grandmother was pure and powerful. She helped raise her granddaughters, Sierra Fox of Atlanta, GA and Monsha Ervin of Greensboro, NC, pouring into them the same strength, poise, and faith that defined her.  Della was also a God-Grandmother to Shatyra Michaux of Greensboro, NC, whose heart and spirit were forever shaped by Della's steady encouragement and unconditional affection.  Della also played a guiding role in the life of her great-niece, Shakia Witherspoon of Lenoir, NC, whom she helped raise with the same devotion, structure, and nurturing spirit as her own grandchildren. In every way that truly mattered, she was a grandmother to her as well. Della's heart was a sanctuary for children. Until her very last breath, she continued to nurture, guide, and love—mothering not only her own family but anyone who needed a place to feel safe and cherished. Her home, shared with her beloved Johnny, was never empty. Neighborhood children knew instinctively that Miss Della's house was a refuge—a warm and welcoming place where they could find a meal, a kind word, or simply the joy of being in her presence. It was the "fun house," the safe house, the heart of the community. It was where childhood memories were made and where love lived freely.

And always close by her side was one of her little dogs—her constant companions. Della adored her dogs, and they adored her right back. Just like the children she loved so deeply, her dogs were a part of her heart, and she treated them like family. Wherever Della was, there was love, warmth, and the soft pitter-patter of paws or tiny feet nearby.
She is survived by her loving siblings, Gladys Patterson of Morganton, NC, and Lucy Witherspoon of Lenoir, NC, along with her brother-in-law, George Smith of Philadelphia, PA, and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Gladys Ferguson, and her siblings, Walter Ferguson Jr., Betty Myers, and Joe Louis Ferguson.  A devoted and longstanding member of Gaston Chapel AME Church, Della served faithfully and joyfully in many capacities, including the Stewardess Board, Missionary Society, Gospel Choir, Lay Organization, and the Kitchen Committee. Whether she was singing praises, preparing meals, supporting outreach, or simply showing up in quiet service, Della gave her all—never for recognition, only out of love for God and her church family.
Outside of her devotion to faith and family, Della was a proud and active participant in civic life. She lived a life of purpose beyond her home and church, serving her community with grace, strength, and integrity. She was a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star, the American Legion Post 322 Auxiliary, and the Morganton Elks Lodge #1852.

Della retired after more than 30 years of distinguished service with the State of North Carolina at Broughton Hospital, where she made history as the first African American to serve as Dietary Manager. Her presence there was more than professional, she was a source of comfort and calm to colleagues and patients alike, known for her compassion, work ethic, and unwavering character. She didn't just work a job; she made an impact, opening doors for others through her excellence and dignity.  Della was known for her elegant style, her quick wit, her fast-talking Lenoir accent, and most of all, her heart. She didn't just speak love—she lived it. She never judged. She listened. She encouraged. She made room for everyone—at her table, in her heart, and in her prayers.

To be loved by Della was to be truly known and unconditionally accepted.
Though her voice is still, her spirit continues to echo through the lives she touched. Her legacy lives on in the prayers she prayed, the people she mentored, the love she gave, and the faith she lived with boldness and humility.  We thank God for the life of Della Mary Ferguson Smith—for the gift of her presence, her example, and her heart.  She was truly one of a kind.  And she will be cherished forever.

A celebration of life, honoring the life of Mrs. Della Mary Smith, will be held Saturday June 28, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Gaston Chapel A.M.E. Church with the Rev. Ronald Knight serving as eulogist.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

The service will be live streamed on the McCain Funeral Home & Cremations Facebook page and YouTube Channel; the links are found below:

McCain Funeral Home & Cremations Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/mccainfuneralhome/

McCain Funeral Home & Cremations YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu4qb7IT7sO-Kc0BRs05J-A