Norma Jean Smith

You've stepped across to Heaven's shore, and we are but a breath behind. Holding dear the truth that bound us close on earth, binds us still. For love endures forever."

Norma Jean Riggs Smith, 89, of Bluefield died peacefully in her sleep, at her home, Thursday, January 14, 2021.

Norma was born in the coalfields of Slab Fork, West Virginia on November 21, 1931. To the late Oakley Riggs and the late Eva Kade Riggs.

When she was five years old she and her parents moved to Lorton Lick Road, where she lived the rest of her life, on land purchased by her Kade grandparents in 1918. She was raised with numerous aunts and uncles and many cousins whom she loved. She still kept in touch with some of them.

Norma graduated from Bramwell High School in 1949 and Concord College in 1952. She taught school for 24 years at Sagamore, Mora, Ceres, Bluewell and Montcalm before retiring. She loved teaching and always said that teaching a child to read was one of her greatest blessings.

Norma met and married George Alfred Smith in 1951. He was her soul mate and the love of her life. Truly, their marriage was made in Heaven.

Alfred introduced her to her Lord and Savior and in 1958 she was baptized. They, along with their family, worshipped at Pine Grove Church of Christ for 50 years until the Lord called him home in 2006.

Norma is survived by a son, Mark Allan Smith and wife Julia and a daughter Valerie Lynn Bailey and husband Barry. Two granddaughters Brooke Bailey and husband Joel Gattoni and Jill Kirby and husband Brandon Kirby. She also has one great- grandson Jack Kirby. One of God's greatest gifts to her was her family and her friends.

A special thanks to Alexandra Mitchem and Carlos Rose for their help in caring for Norma and helping us to be able to keep her at home.

In lieu of flowers please send contributions to St. Jude's Hospital.

Due to Covid-19 a private graveside service is planned.

Online condolences will be accepted at www.cravens-shires.com. Cravens-Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell is serving the Smith family.