Melva Sue (Boyles) Smith

Melva Sue Boyles Smith, 87 years of age, died peacefully with her children by her side on July 1, 2024. She was born September 3, 1936, in Stokes County to Aubrey Arnold and Lillian Frances Holland Boyles. 

Melva graduated from King High School in 1954. That same year, she met her husband, Robert “Bob” Smith at Carolina Beach.  She and Bob married on October 22, 1955, and had two children, Mark and Robin.  They also founded and ran the successful Marrob Farm in Tobaccoville, where they raised tobacco, cattle, and some produce.  Her busy life as a farmer, wife, and mother demonstrated Melva’s strong work ethic and sharp mind.

As generous as she was bright, Melva shared her experience with her farming community during her tenure as an editor for Southeastern Holstein News in the 1990s. Her astuteness was also evident in her talent for card games. She led Rook games at Priddy Manor for several years. Melva’s kind heart and giving spirit were reflected in her hobbies and community engagement. She raised boxer puppies and loved to share her gift of baking, canning, and cooking with all her loved ones. She was most well-known for her chocolate pie, coconut cream pie, deviled eggs, and fried chicken. 

Melva’s home church since approximately 1955, First Christian Church of King, recognized her invaluable role in her community in 2011 when they awarded her Woman of the Year. Melva was a gift to all who had the fortune to have her as a family member or as a friend. Her kindness and cleverness were matched only by her perfect combination of humbleness and strength. Melva loved openly and unconditionally, and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her. 

Melva is predeceased by her parents, Aubrey and Lillian Boyles, her husband Bob of 49 years, and her sister Sally Boyles.  She is survived by her son Mark Smith (Melanie) of McGaheysville, VA, daughter Robin Jorgensen (Todd) of Tobaccoville, NC, grandson Kendrick Smith (Laura), great-granddaughter Libby, granddaughter Allison Smith, granddaughter Lauren Kimel, brother-in-law Cap’n Smith, sister-in-law Brenda James, three nieces, four nephews, six great-nieces, five great nephews, 10 great-great nieces, nine great-great-nephews, and one-great-great-great nephew. 

If you choose to donate in Memory of Melva, the family supports Trellis Supportive Care, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston Salem, NC  27103, as well as First Christian Church of King, 625 Meadowbrook Drive, King, NC 27021, or the charity of your choice.

The family of Melva sincerely thanks you for your love and support during this difficult time in their lives.  May God continue to bless you.

Slate Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Melva Sue Boyles Smith. Online condolences may be offered at www.slatefh.com.

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