Carol Lee Smith, 68, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the Hospice Home of Alamance County, surrounded by her loving family.

Carol was the daughter of the late Hoyt Donald Lee and Carolyn Chapmon Lee and was married for over 41 years to the love of her life, Ronald “Ron” Coleman Smith.

Carol worked for the North Carolina State Auditor’s Office for over 30 years serving as an Audit Manager. Upon retirement, she was awarded the honor of being inducted into The Order of the Long Leaf Pine. Carol spent her early years of retirement working in the front office at Burlington Academy of Dance and Arts, where her daughters spent many years dancing.

Carol led with her heart in all she did. She was very musically inclined and found great joy in singing, whether in the kitchen or in the church choir. She loved to garden and be outdoors. Her yard was always beautifully cared for, reflecting the time and love she poured into everything she did. Carol also loved cooking for her family and always looked forward to gathering around the table, sharing good food, conversation, laughter, and time together. She treasured the opportunity to enjoy life with those she loved. Carol and Ron shared many wonderful adventures together, involving cycling and traveling. She also enjoyed traveling with her sisters and close friends, creating memories that she cherished deeply.

Of all the roles she held in life, being a grandmother was one of the most precious to Carol. She cherished every moment spent with her grandsons, Fisher and Callaghan, and was eagerly looking forward to welcoming another grandson on the way. Her family was the center of her world, and the love she shared with them will continue to be felt for generations to come.

In addition to her husband, Ron, Carol is survived by her daughters, Jessica Smith and Emma Mann and her husband, Cody; grandsons, Fisher Coleman Phillips and Callaghan Hoyt Mann, with another grandson on the way; brother, Edward Lee and wife Becky; sisters, Amanda Dixon and her husband, David, and Sheryl Pate; sister-in-law, Karon Matkins as well as numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Don and Carolyn Lee, and Ron’s parents, John Lacy and Evelyn King Smith.

A funeral service to celebrate Carol’s life will be held at 10:00 in the morning on Saturday, August 15, 2026 in the chapel at Lowe Funeral Home with the burial to follow in the Mausoleum at Alamance Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 on Friday, August 14, 2026 at the funeral home.