Jessie Bain Barbee Smith

Jessie Bain Barbee Smith, 98, of Newberry, SC, formerly of Easley, SC, died on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Born on November 9, 1927, in Stanly County, NC. She was the daughter of the late Bruner Eli Barbee and the late Bessie Lorene (Cooper) Barbee Burleson. She was also predeceased by her son, Ralph Daniel Smith, her brother, Carol Barbee, and two sisters, Zona Hatley and Jean Daly.

Jessie served as a paralegal, worked for Union Carbide, and served as an administrative assistant in both the College of Education and the Department of Mathematics at the University of South Carolina. Her meticulous attention to detail and innate ability to learn new skills were instrumental to the departments she served. Beyond her professional life, she was a consummate homemaker, mother and caregiver whose talents and passions left a lasting impact on those who knew her. A gifted seamstress, Jessie had the remarkable ability to create anything she set her mind to, from reupholstering furniture to crafting beautiful clothing. She took great pride in sharing her creations with family and friends. She spent many happy years in Wilmington, NC, in retirement, during which she developed a most special relationship with her youngest grandchild, Dylan.

Jessie's caring nature was evident in every aspect of her life; always willing to lend a helping hand, offer a listening ear, or share a warm smile. She would give you the shirt off her back if she thought you could use it.

Jessie is survived by her son, Jeffrey Alan Smith (Charlotte); daughter, Dr. Karan Barbee Smith; and daughter, Alison Smith Spiesman. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Dawn Shealy (Robby), Tracey Nelson (Chris), Monica Cromer (Chris), and Dylan Smith, eleven great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Providence Church of God Cemetery in Locust, North Carolina.

Memories and messages may be shared on her tribute wall.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith family.