Judy Marie Smith, 78, of Love Valley, N.C., passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, at the home of her granddaughter, Valarie Kirkland, in Stony Point, N.C.

Born on January 29, 1947, in Richlands, Va., to the late Joseph “Joe” Albert Martin and Della Marie Martin, Judy devoted her life to caring for others. After earning her certification as a Nursing Assistant, she worked at Clinch Valley Hospital. She later retired as a Manager with Cumberland Mountain Community Services, where she found joy in serving others, especially by providing meals to those in need.

Judy’s life was marked by her steadfast Christian faith and her spirited personality. She drew comfort and inspiration from sermons by Joyce Meyer, T.D. Jakes, and Billy Graham, and she faithfully supported numerous ministries throughout her life. She found purpose in sharing her faith and encouraging others in their walk with God. Judy also cherished the spirit of the cowgirl life that defined Love Valley. She delighted in its close-knit community, Western heritage, and the freedom of simple country living. Above all, Judy’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She spoke often and proudly of her two sons, and she cherished the many blessings of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Joann Martin Clifton.

Left to treasure her memory are her brothers, Mike Martin and wife Gayle, and Gary Martin; her ex-husband and dear friend, Donald “Duck” Smith; her sons, Ricky Dale Burke and wife Jeannie, and Jerry Allen Burke and wife Connie; her grandchildren, Valarie Marie Kirkland and husband Corey, Rachel Lee Burke, and Ricky Allen Burke and wife Chelsea; step-grandchildren, Katie and Samantha; and great-grandchildren, Riley, Charlotte, Anna, Abel, and Cayden. Judy will also be fondly remembered by many extended family members and dear friends.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Alexis Settle of Iredell County Hospice, whose compassion, dedication, and gentle care brought Judy and her loved ones great comfort during her final days.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Nicholson Funeral Home in Statesville. All who loved Judy are warmly invited to attend and share their memories, photographs, and stories in honor of her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of Judy’s favorite ministries, Joyce Meyer Ministries, in honor of her enduring faith.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.