Jayne Grace Smith

Jayne Grace Stephenson Smith, 83, of Myrtle Beach, SC passed away peacefully at home on October 31, 2024. Jayne Grace was born on June 29,1941 in Fuquay-Varina, NC. She was the daughter of Joseph William Stephenson Sr. and Eloise Powe Stephenson. 

Jayne touched many lives with her passion for music and loved sharing her passion with others.  She taught and directed all ages ranging from 3 years old to 90 years old.  She formed and directed High School Choral groups at Freedom High School in Morganton, NC and Sanderson High School in Raleigh, NC. Jayne directed Chancel, Youth and Children’s choirs and formed Handbell Choirs for Adult, Youth and Children at Front Street Methodist of Burlington, NC, First United Methodist Church of Cary, NC and First Methodist Church of Myrtle Beach, SC. Jayne loved putting together productions whether it was a Cantata or a Broadway show so everyone could experience the arts. She would also spend hours marking many handbell pieces for her beloved handbell members.  She loved going “on the road” with her choirs to New York, Florida and even made it all the way to the White House!  Jayne was also active in Missions traveling to the Appalachians, Bolivia and Brazil.

Jayne Grace was quick witted, loved large and never met a stranger.  You always  knew  where you stood with her “a matter of fact” attitude.  Her motto was Let Go! Let God and Just Go On!  And she loved Makin’ Memories with her family and friends.  

Jayne leaves behind her husband Gary Smith of 40 years, her children, George Wilkins (& his Susan), Emilee McCracken (John McCracken), Leigh Smith Howell and her grandchildren, Hayden Elizabeth Heatherly, Jared Stephenson McCracken, Rachel Lane Howell, Elizabeth Jayne McCracken, Bella Zoe Wilkins, 5 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and countless others that called her Grandmother whom she loved dearly. And of course Buddy, the sweet baby dog. 

Jayne is preceded in death by her siblings, Joseph William (Bill) Stephenson, Jr, Oscar Powe Stephenson, Nancy Deborah Stephenson Young, and grandson Austin Lynn Smith.  

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 23, at 11am at First Methodist Church of Myrtle Beach, SC. 901 N. Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC.

Following the service, the family will receive friends in the Wesley Fellowship Hall. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the First Methodist Church Music Ministry or Missions.  

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