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WILMINGTON, NC – Martha Hope Basnight Smith, age 83, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2024.

After growing up in Ahoskie, NC, she dedicated her life to the service of others as a teacher and speech therapist, a devoted mother, and a “professional volunteer.”

Her commitment as a volunteer was evident in her active participation with PTA thrift shops, libraries, and by making Christmas special to many Chatham County families through the Salvation Army. Martha Hope was also a proud member of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry Mason Smith, and her parents, W.H. and Myra Basnight.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication, cherished by her surviving family: her daughter, April Hope Smith; her stepdaughter, Lisa Powell and her husband Bobby; and her grandchildren, Cali Powell Stone, Hanson Powell, Quin Powell, and Mason Powell. She will also be fondly remembered by her nephew, Michael Basnight, his wife Gina, and their two children, and nephews David, Leigh, and Howard Basnight and their families.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel from 11:00 – 11:30 am, followed by a memorial service at 11:30 am. The family invites all who knew and loved Martha Hope (known simply as “Hope” in her final years) to join them in celebrating her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to Shriners Children’s, PO Box 947765, Atlanta GA 30394, or online by visiting www.tmcfunding.com/search, then type “Martha Hope Smith.” You may also donate to the wildlife charity of your choice.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Lower Cape Fear LifeCare.

Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Smith family and online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.