Marion Chappell Smith Covington

Marion Chappell Smith Covington, a cherished member of her community and beloved matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully at her home in Ellerbe, North Carolina, on September 26, 2025 at the age of 92. Born on June 29, 1933, in Richmond County, North Carolina, Marion lived a life rich in love and purpose and touched the hearts of many during her remarkable journey.

A steadfast presence in the Ellerbe community, Marion dedicated decades to her career, with notable service at Webb's Food Center, Hilltop Hatchery, and Gilead Manufacturing, ultimately retiring from Ellerbe Telephone Company after 25 devoted years. Her professional life was marked not merely by her work ethic but also by the warmth she brought to every interaction.

Marion was a proud member of the First Presbyterian Church of Ellerbe, where her contributions were felt deeply. As an active participant in the church's choir, she lifted spirits with her beautiful voice, and through her roles as a Sunday School teacher and Bible class leader, she inspired generations of young minds to embrace their faith. Her unwavering dedication to her church reflected her deep commitment to her community and the values she held dear.

In her personal life, Marion was known for her passion for cooking, her love of flowers, and the joy she found working in her yard. She relished the simple pleasures of life and found profound happiness in spending time with her family. Those moments with loved ones were the true treasures of her heart.

Marion's legacy will live on through her loving family. She is survived by her sons, Richard Smith (Jane) and Branson Smith, along with her adored grandchildren, Victoria Bolger (George), Caleb Smith (Ayrika), Brandon Smith and Julian Smith and her precious great-grandchildren: Nolan Smith, Juliana Smith, Clyde Smith, Jonah Smith, Cleo Smith, Miles Bolger, and Banks Bolger. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit, woven through the memories and lessons she shared.

Marion is reunited in spirit with her beloved husband, Emmett Wesley Smith, Jr., her late husband, Thomas Jefferson Covington, her parents, Branson Edmond and Gertie Allred Chappell, and her siblings, Effie Meacham and Larry Chappell. Their collective love serves as a reassuring reminder of the ties that bind across generations.

A visitation in honor of Marion will be held on October 2, 2025, from 9:45 AM until 10:45 AM at the Fellowship Hall of First Presbyterian Church in Ellerbe, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM in the sanctuary. This will be an opportunity for friends and family to gather, share stories, and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who gave so much to those around her. Following the service she will be laid to rest beside her late husband Wesley in the Chappell Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Richmond County Hospice and to her caregivers, Joanne and Classie, for their kindness and invaulable care of Marion in her final days.

Memorials may be made to Richmond County Hospice, 1119 US Hwy 1 N, Rockingham, NC 28379 or to Ellerbe First Presbyterian Church, P.O.Box 116, Ellerbe, NC 28338.

Marion Chappell Smith Covington will be remembered not just for her myriad contributions throughout her life but for the love and kindness she extended to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, faith, and family—a shining beacon for those who follow in her footsteps.