Judith Smith Rankin

Judith "Judy" Smith Rankin, 83, of Concord, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at Atrium Health Cabarrus, surrounded by her loving family.

A service to celebrate Judy's life will be held at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in the chapel of Wilkinson Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Ronnie Pinyan. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 4:00 to 5:00 PM.

Born February 22, 1942, in Charlotte, NC, Judy was the daughter of the late Louise Pigg Stowe and James Rufus Ferrell. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Willie J. "Bud" Smith; her second husband, Thomas A. Rankin; and her beloved children, Patricia Ann Smith and Rick L. Smith.

Judy lived a life anchored in faith, family, and service. She was a woman of resilience and compassion, whose quiet strength was evident in everything she did. With nearly five decades of dedication in tax preparation, Judy spent 31 years with H&R Block before retiring in 2008. Her clients trusted her not only for her expertise, but for the care and integrity she brought to each interaction.

Outside of taking care of her tax clients, Judy enjoyed traveling, gardening, and boating at the lake. She loved making sure her backyard critters were well fed. Her greatest treasure, however, was her family, and she poured her love into each generation.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Deetra G. Ragan and husband Toney Sr. of Concord; her daughter-in-law, Teressa Shaver; her sister, Ramona Ferrell Blackwelder; grandchildren Dana R. Surratt (Ben), Lori S. Miller (Kevin), Ricky L. Smith (Amy), and L. Michael Smith (Kathy); eleven adored great-grandchildren-Tyler, Austin, Dakota, Alan, Courtney, Ryan, Destiny, Bethany, Jenna, Tyler, and Joel-and twelve great-great-grandchildren who brought endless joy to her days. She also leaves behind extended family members and dear friends who were touched by her generous spirit.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lake Community Church, 7800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146.