Deborah "Debbie" Ann Morgan Smith

Deborah "Debbie" Ann Morgan Smith, 65, of Kannapolis, passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 surrounded by her family. Debbie’s life was a testament to resilience and love that will be remembered by all who knew her.

A memorial service to honor Debbie's life will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, May 26, 2024 at Central United Methodist Church of Concord, officiated by Rev. Tom Latimer. The family will greet friends following the service to share memories and celebrate her life.

The service will be live-streamed at the following link: https://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAvaEQVZ8ac>"

Debbie was born on March 15, 1959, in Wilmington, NC, to the late Joann Grant Morgan and Frankie Morgan. She is also preceded in death by her husband, David Smith.

Debbie proudly graduated from the Governor Morehead School for the Blind in Raleigh. Growing up in and around Raleigh, she became a huge NC State Wolfpack fan and was a loyal fan listening to the games regularly. She moved to Waynesville with David where she lived for 32 years. Music and singing were integral to Debbie’s life; she read music in Braille and was a longtime member of her church choirs at First United Methodist of Waynesville and Central UMC Concord. She was given the opportunity to be a childcare provider for several children and enjoyed answering the phone at the church office on a weekly basis. Among her many roles, she was most proud of being a mother and grandmother, cherishing every moment with her grandchildren. Despite her disability, Debbie maintained a positive outlook and overcame many obstacles with grace and determination. Many would say that when they think of Debbie, they will remember her smile and her ability to see the best in everyone she met.

She is survived by her daughter, Betsy S. Kaiser and husband, Daryl of Concord; her son, Stephen Smith and significant other, Julia of Kannapolis; her sister, Angela "Angie" Morgan of Wilmington; her brother, Frankie "Doodle" Morgan Jr. and wife, Mary of Wilmington; and her beloved grandchildren, Evan Kaiser, Emelyn Kaiser, Turner Smith, and Ethan Kaiser; beloved Cat, Millie.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to NC Lions Camp Dogwood, 7062 Camp Dogwood Drive, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or American Lung Association, 55 W. Wacker Drive #1150, Chicago, IL, 60601, both causes close to Debbie’s heart.

As we mourn the loss of Debbie, let us celebrate her life, her strength, and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her, and she will be dearly missed. May she rest in peace.