Elizabeth "Libby" Thornton Smith, 83, of Shelby, NC, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024, surrounded by family.

Born to the late Gordon Meredith Thornton Sr. and Jewell Monteith Thornton, Libby was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, cherished by all who knew her.

Libby is preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Duane Thornton and Dorothy "Dottie" Bauguess; in-laws, Richard Smith and Hazel Smith; her son-in-law, David Wilson; and her brother-in-law, Danny Baldwin.

Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband of 63 years, Iverson R. Smith, and her daughters, Sandy Champion (husband Phil) and Sharon Wilson (boyfriend Stephen Waldrep). Libby was the proud grandmother of Katie Wilson, Gracie Sheffield (husband Wesley), Will Champion (girlfriend Madi Ives), and Philip Champion (fiancée Melissa Martin). She also leaves behind her siblings, Gordon Thornton Jr. (wife Karolyn), Jim Thornton, Laura Davis (husband Lee), Mike Thornton, and Janice Baldwin, as well as many nieces and nephews. Libby's beloved dog, Pierre, was a constant companion by her side.

Libby dedicated her career to working in textile companies and the furniture industry, serving as an executive secretary and later working in a local craft store. Her artistic talents extended into many crafts, including macramé, cross-stitch, and China painting, and she was a talented painter with a special love for landscapes and floral scenes. Known for her "green thumb," Libby transformed her garden with shrubs, trees, and vibrant flowers, a passion she inherited from her mother, Jewell. Her love for music filled her home, where a collection of CDs and the sound of melodies were always present. She also had a remarkable knack for finding four-leaf clovers, a talent that highlighted her unique outlook on life.

Libby was a proud and active member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority in Shelby, where she formed lasting bonds and contributed to the community she loved. Her gentle spirit, artistic talents, and love for her family will be remembered always.

A funeral service will be held 1:00 PM Tuesday, November 5, 2024 in the chapel of Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home with Pastor Gus Navarro offering words of encouragement for those in attendance. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 12 - 1:00 PM. Burial will be held following the service at Catawba Memorial Park; 3010 US-70, Newton, NC 28658

Memorial donations may be made to VIA Health Partners P.O. Box 470408 Charlotte, NC 28247

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home is serving the family.