LouGene Smith Hemphill

September 18, 1935 ~ March 23, 2023

Raleigh, NC – LouGene Smith Hemphill, age 87 of Raleigh died Thursday, March 23, 2023 at her granddaughter's home in Burlington NC.

LouGene was born September 18th, 1935 in Kinston NC to Katie “Susie” Susan Grady and Faison Smith. After growing up with her two younger brothers on the family farm in Albertson, NC, LouGene married James W. Hemphill. They settled in Raleigh NC and were married 60 years. LouGene was a loving mother to two sons, James “Jimmy” F. Hemphill and Dan H. Hemphill and an adored “Nana” to two granddaughters, Lauren and Allison. As a mother and grandmother, she has been an avid supporter of all their sports- attending games and being their biggest cheerleader. LouGene was a devoted member of Western Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, NC for over 50 years.  She was an energetic lady that loved her family, church and helping anyone that she could by spreading joy around with her beautiful smile. She never met a stranger. LouGene retired from NC State Dairy Records Processing Center after 30 years, was a member of the WolfPack Club and also an active member of the Caswell‐Nash Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution serving as the Registrar.  She enjoyed gardening, traveling, history, visiting cemeteries and has spent many days collecting shells and shark teeth off the beach with her granddaughters. LouGene had an enormous passion for genealogy and has written many books. LouGene could always help connect you to your roots.

LouGene is survived by her son Dan H. Hemphill of Garner NC; brother Faison D. Smith of Clayton NC; her granddaughter Lauren E. Snyder and grandson-in-law Adam C. Snyder of Burlington, NC; her granddaughter Allison J. Hemphill of LaGrange; and two great grandchildren, Elijah “Cole” Snyder and Mackenzie Myers. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.

LouGene was preceded in death by her husband James William Hemphill and son James Faison Hemphill. She is the daughter of the late Faison Smith and Katie “Susie” Susan Grady and the sister of the late William Aaron Smith.

Funeral services will be held Saturday March 25, 2023 at 2pm at the Pink Hill Funeral Home with visitation prior at 1pm. The graveside service will follow at Oak Ridge Memorial Park, Pink Hill.

Memorial Service will be at a later date at Western Boulevard Presbyterian Church, Raleigh NC.

Memorial contributions can be made to Western Boulevard Presbyterian Church: 4900 Kaplan Drive, Raleigh NC 27606

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