Visitation
Service
Shirley Lee Smith Clarke, 91, of Morganton, NC, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
Born in Burke County, NC on August 6, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Jim Bandy Smith and Floy Otis Shuping Smith.
Shirley had attended Salem United Methodist Church, First Advent Christian Church, and most recently, North Morganton United Methodist Church. She was an excellent baker and cake decorator, and decorated the wedding cake for her late son, Darren. Shirley also had a group of friends with which she played Bingo and did water aerobics.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Dawn Clarke Hutchins and Deanna Clarke Wise; grandchildren, Destiney Tew Benfield (Dustin), Dylan Lee Bollinger, Michael Andrew Wise (Andrea), Dustin Lee Wise, and Sierra Clarke Sprehe (Brett); great-grandchildren, Bella Wise, Noelle Conway, and Colton Benfield; brothers, Ervin Smith and Felix Smith (Debbie); sister, Catherine Smith; sister-in-law, Ann Smith and her longtime companion, Harold Whisnant.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her son, Darren Andrew Clarke; sister, Doris Smith Roper; brothers, Robert Smith, Jimmy Ray Smith, and Bill W. Smith; and son-in-law, John Hutchins.
The cryptside service will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, August 23, 2026 at the columbarium at North Morganton United Methodist Church with Rev. Jim Taber officiating.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Leave a tribute for Shirley Lee Smith Clarke.
I have just heard about Shirley passing. Shirley and I have been friends for many years. Premiere Hosiery and going out to eat at McDonald's. Our age kept us apart, but sweet memories always brings back to good old days. Please accept my condolences. A sweet friend greatly missed. Love, Hattie
I worked with shirley for many years. We became good friends and after retirement, went to breakfast once a week with other friends. I am just now Hearing about her passing. I send my sincere condolences and prayers for the family.
You were very loved and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace
Condolences on the loss of your sister!
Dawn, I am so sorry for your loss! You, Deanna, and the kids are in my prayers.
May God wrap his loving arms of comfort around your family.
So sorry for your loss prayers are with you all.