Melody Kay Smith White

Melody Kay Smith White, age 77, affectionately known as Kay, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026. Born on May 7, 1948, in Caldwell County, she lived a life marked by unwavering devotion to her family and an enduring spirit of selflessness.

Kay was a woman who consistently put others before herself, always looking out for her loved ones with a tender and caring heart. Her generosity and compassion resonated deeply with all who knew her, making her a cherished presence in her community and family circle. She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, including crocheting, cross stitch, and especially cooking for her family, acts through which she expressed her love and care.

Family was the cornerstone of Kay’s life. She adored and cherished her husband of 60 years, Conley White, sharing a lifetime of memories and support. Kay was a devoted mother; she is survived by her daughter Paula Benfield (Jerry) and her son Jason White (Pam). Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren Jaron Benfield (Megan), Jalon White (Madison), Ariel McCurdy (Cory), Collin White, and her step-grandchildren Graham Barfield and Payton Barfield. Her great-granddaughter Presley Kay McCurdy and another great-grandchild, Jackson White, soon to join the family, were a source of immense pride and happiness for her.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents Archie Kent Smith and Pauline Helton Smith, her son Michael White, and her sister Linda Lail.

A visitation to honor Kay’s memory will take place on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Union Baptist Church, located at 4595 Union Baptist Road, Lenoir, North Carolina. The funeral service will be Friday, May 8, 2026, at Union Baptist Church at 3:00 pm. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Mark Robinette will officiate. Jaron Benfield, Jalon White, Collin White, Cory McCurdy, Christian Pope, and John Yount will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Union Baptist Church, 4595 Union Baptist Road, Lenoir, NC 28645.

Kay leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and kindness. Her selfless spirit and the warmth she bestowed on everyone around her will be remembered and treasured forever. She will be deeply missed, yet her influence will endure through the generations she nurtured so lovingly.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com