Goldia Smathers

Waynesville-Goldia Bryson Smathers, beloved wife of Roy Smathers, went to meet her Heavenly Father on Sunday, October 8, 2006 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Glenville, NC on November 7, 1932 and lived most of her life in Haywood County. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Ethel Bryson, and brothers, Glenn and Larry Bryson. Goldia was an active member of Pleasant Balsam Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School for many years, shared her love of flowers while serving as floral director, and helped prepare many meals while serving on the food committee. She loved attending church and was very devoted to her church family. Goldia's life was a living testament of her deep abiding faith and trust in her Lord. She was a remarkable person who inspired everyone with her willingness to help others. She was a patient and loving caretaker for many who endured illness in her family and community as well. She always put others needs ahead of her own. She was truly a blessing to her family and friends. Goldia lived a life of quite, dignified grace. She was a talented, creative homemaker who loved to share her home with friends and family. She had a wonderful quick wit and enjoyed a good laugh. A visit to her home was always special. She loved the beauty of the mountains and said there was no other place on earth that she would rather live. Goldia was also a gifted craftswoman who enjoyed many creative endeavors including needlework sewing, and basket weaving. Everything she created was an example of the beauty that was resident within her heart and mind. She believed if there was something worth doing then it should be done right. This philosophy was evident in every fiber of her life. Goldia leaves to cherish her memory, her devoted husband Roy Smathers with whom she shared her life for 52 years; sisters, Barbara Donahoo of Waynesville, Sharon Hall and husband, David, of Merrimac, MA; brother, Robert Bryson and wife Rusé, of Clyde; five nieces and nephews, nine great-nieces and great nephews and many other family members. In addition, a great many beloved friends survive her. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 11, 2006 in the Waynesville Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with Reverend Paul Carden and Reverend Virgil Holloway officiating. Burial will follow at Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pleasant Balsam Baptist Church Building Fund, 2404 Old Balsam Road, Waynesville, NC 28786 or Haywood Regional Medical Center Hospice, 560 Leroy Drive, Clyde, NC 28721.

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