Jean Ray Smith Freeman

March 6, 2026

CHARLOTTE – Jean Ray Smith Freeman, entered her heavenly home on Friday, March 6, 2026.  She was born in Burnsville, NC, daughter of James William Smith and Edna Emily Ray Smith.

Jean attended Mars Hill College and retired from the Henkel Corporation.  She was a member of Pritchard Memorial Baptist Church, the Pilot Club and Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary.  Jean served as President of Mecklenburg Baptist Association and trustee at Mars Hill University.  She was a recipient of the Baptist Heritage Award.

Jean is survived by her nephew, Dennis Ray Renfro (Joyce); great-nephew, William Robert Renfro (Shannon); great-niece, Michele Lee Renfro (Peter); great-grandnephews, David Renfro, Jr. and Cameron Murray along with many cousins and friends.  In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her sisters, June Smith Renfro and Kate Smith Welch and nephew, William David Renfro, Sr.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Pritchard Church.  The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Jean to Pritchard Church, Attn: Helping Hands Ministry, 1117 South Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203 or Via Health Partners, 7845 Little Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28226.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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  • Nelle rose beverly

    I have happy memories of being with Jean at the Salvation Ladies Aux. meetings. She was a blessing.

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  • Dan Williama

    Jean was such a sweet sweet lady. I can’t even picture her with her smile.

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  • Linda Smith

    My prayers and love to Jeans family and friends! A lovely person! Known her for years ! Through Pritchard, Salvation Army,and Pilot Club! She was actually a family friend! My sisters knew her also! You will be missed! Linda

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  • Susan Harmon

    I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Jean. We worked together at The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary for many years and had a mutual friend in the Pilot Club. I am fortunate to have wonderful memories of Jean. I pray her family will cherish their memories of her too.

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  • Jennifer moore

    Condolences from the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary. We thank her for her many years of service. God bless all her family. Jennifer Moore

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