Jimmie Sue (Ellis) Smith

Mrs. Jimmie Sue Ellis Smith, 91, formerly of Lincolnton, Ga., passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in Monroe, Ga.

Born on April 27, 1934, in Cherry Valley, Ark., Jimmie Sue was a beacon of love and faith throughout her life. She was the daughter of the late James and Maxine Faulkner Ellis. She grew up in Cherry Valley and after graduation, soon moved to Washington, D.C. where she began her career as an administrative assistant with the FBI under the leadership of J. Edgar Hoover. It was there that she met the love of her life, Bernard Smith, who was serving in the U.S. Army at the Pentagon. Together, they shared a life of love and service, living in Germany, Italy, Massachusetts, Florida, and eventually settling in Lincolnton, Ga., in 1972 following Bernard's retirement.

Jimmie Sue worked briefly at Columbia Nitrogen before joining Lincoln County High School, where she served as both a paraprofessional and administrative assistant until her retirement.

Her commitment to her faith was unwavering. A devoted Christian, she was a cherished member of New Work Baptist Church, where she shared her musical talents as the church organist. She also gave generously of her time to Vacation Bible School and was an active member of the Women's Missionary Union. Described as kind, faith-filled and gentle, Jimmie Sue touched countless lives with her quiet strength and selfless nature. Her life was a beautiful tapestry of love, service and devotion to her family, her faith and her community. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard (Smitty) Smith, and her daughter, Sandra "Sandy" Harding. Her love and legacy live on through her children: James Smith, Cathy Tankersley (Wayne) of Madison, Ga.; Bernie Smith (Cindy) of Fleming Island, Fla.; and Gary Smith (Lynn) of Edgefield, S.C. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Brad Tankersley, Jenny Templeton, Sue Ellen Tankersley, J.B. Smith, Kelly Brown, Holly Thomas, Ben Harding, and Madison Harmon, as well as numerous great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory.

Jimmie Sue's interests were a reflection of her nurturing spirit. She found joy in sewing, cooking, and tending her flower garden. These simple pleasures brought comfort to her family and friends and were a testament to her creativity and warmth.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 28, 2025, at New Work Baptist Church, Lincolnton, Georgia, with interment to follow at Double Branches Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Work Baptist Church 4900 Double Branches Road, Lincolnton, GA 30817 or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Beggs Funeral Home, Lincolnton is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Jimmie Sue Ellis Smith.