Ruth Edwards Smith departed this life peacefully on August 7, 2026, at her home in Sedalia, N.C. for her heaven-bound destination. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Prince Earl Smith.

 Ruth was born in Williamsboro, near Henderson, N.C. Her parents, also deceased, were Frank and Lillian Edwards. She had seven sisters and brothers, also deceased, who included her twin sister, Ruby Nottage, Olivia Williams, Thomas Edwards, Frances Robinson, Clementine Bishop, William Edwards and Mary Bell Burton. Survivors left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Priscilla B. Smith of Raleigh, N.C. and Felicia Smith Parks and son-in-law Tony Parks of Sedalia. In addition, Ruth is survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

 Ruth attended public schools in Henderson and was a graduate of Henderson Institute. After graduating, she attended N.C. A&T State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Administration, with a Certification in Principalship and Supervision.

 Ruth began her career as a teacher in Burlington, N.C. and then schools in Guilford County. She was a Supervisor of a federal program that resulted in guidance counselor programs for elementary schools. Later, she became an Assistant Principal and then Principal at Alamance Primary School. She was a Postmaster for the Sedalia Post Office and the first Mayor of Sedalia, after it was incorporated in 1997.

 Ruth received numerous honors and awards. She was designated Principal of the Year for the State of North Carolina for Innovative Programs. She received a Community Service Award presented by Beta Nu Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and an Award from the Secretaries for being Outstanding Boss of the Year. 

Ruth was a member of Sedalia Civic Organization, Gate City Chapter Alumni Association, and held office for the Whitsett precinct. 

Ruth’s parents were dedicated church members at a small church in Williamsboro, built by her grandfather, who was the pastor. She was taught at a young age to work and participate in church and credited that as her foundation for her love of church work. 

Ruth and Prince attended what is now known as Bethany Community Church in Sedalia, where she served several roles including Sunday School Superintendent, Chairman of the Church Council, and a member of Church Women. Later, they joined the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Greensboro where they both continued to serve in numerous capacities. Some of the biggest highlights in Ruth’s latter years were attending church on Sunday mornings and participating in numerous events. She was in charge of hospitality, and participated in the Tea of Love fashion show, where she was a model. She also enjoyed Christmas with Santa. Another joy was preparing meals for holidays and special events for her children and nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be held Friday, August 21, 2026 10:30am St. Francis Episopal Church and Day School 3506 Lawndale Drive Greensboro, North Carolina. Visitation 10:00am. Burial will follow at Alamance Memorial Park 4039 South Church Street Burlington, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to : Prince E. Smith and Ruth E. Smith Endowed Scholarship Fund, North Carolina A&T State University, Dowdy Bldg. 400 1601 E. Market Street, Greensboro,NC 27411