Susan Elizabeth Smith Starnes

Susan Elizabeth Smith Starnes, born on January 25, 1962, in Alexander County, went to be with our Lord and Savior and her family on April 9, 2026, at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Catawba County. She was a member of Friendly Baptist Church and devoted much of her life to her faith and community.

Susan loved and cherished her family above all. She always looked forward to spending time with them, creating countless memories marked by her kindness and dedication. Her personality was defined by a genuine desire to help others, reflecting the deep compassion she extended to all those around her.

An avid gardener, Susan found joy in planting flowers and vegetables and was known for her skillful flower arrangements. She also had a passion for riding horses, fishing, and was an enthusiastic cook, especially fond of preparing dishes that brought her family together around the table.

She is survived by her son, Christopher Starnes; her sisters, Joy Billings (Allen), Angela Johnson, and Darlene Jonas (Mitchell); step-brothers, Dale Barnett (Lisa), Donnie Barnett; nieces and nephews, Tiphanie Billings, Ashley Pope, Christian Jonas, Chase Johnson, Isaac Jonas, Stacey Pope, Candace Johnson, Elisha Jonas, and Jonathan Barnett; great-nieces, Mikayla Nall, Skyler Billings, and Adeline Johnson; as well as cousins, Lisa Pennell, Linda Pennell, and Tania Dabbs. These family members carry forward her legacy of love and dedication.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Harold Junior Smith (Jenny) and Mary Ann Mayberry Smith McAlpin (Charlie); her husband of seven years, Mark Christopher Starnes; her brother Richard Smith; sister Barbara Smith; brothers-in-law Jeff Johnson and Wayne Starnes; nephew Ethan Jonas; and aunt Shirley Pennell.

A family led Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 3:00 pm at Friendly Baptist Church, located at 576 Friendly Church Road, Township of Taylorsville, NC 28681. Steven Goodman will be speaking. This gathering will provide an opportunity for those who knew and loved her to honor her memory and reflect on the profound impact she had on their lives.

The family will accept flowers, or donations may be made to the family to help cover funeral costs at Alexander Funeral Service, PO Box 40, Taylorsville, NC 28681.

Susan will be remembered for her generous spirit, her devotion to family, and her heartfelt commitment to her community. Her presence enriched the lives of many, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness that will be treasured forever.

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

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com