Mary Claire Warren Smith

Mary Claire Warren Smith, 89, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 9, 2017 at Madison Health & Rehabilitation in Mars Hill. Born September 1, 1927 in Asheville, she was the daughter of the late Benjamin William Warren and Jessie Miriam Smith Warren and was a lifelong resident of Asheville, graduating from Lee H. Edwards High School in 1944. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Jerre Hamilton Smith; her brother, Benjamin William Warren, Jr.; and her brother and sister-in-law, Frederick Briggs Warren and Gladys Parker Warren. Mary is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Ann Smith, of Napa, CA, and Jennifer Lynn Smith Carter, of Asheville; and her granddaughter, Kimberly Rose Carter. She worked for the federal government in the Grove Arcade Building then later as a substitute teacher for Buncombe County Schools. She was actively involved in the East Asheville community during her lifetime as a Red Cross Water Safety Instructor, Girl Scout leader, softball coach, and band chaperone at A.C. Reynolds Middle and High Schools. The family will receive friends on Saturday January 14, 2017, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. with a service following at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at Groce Funeral Home at 856 Tunnel Road, Asheville. The Rev. Stacey Harris will officiate. Private burial will take place at Lewis Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the A. C. Reynolds Band Boosters, 1 Rocket Drive, Asheville, NC 28803.