John Haywood Smith

   John Haywood “J.H.” Smith, 80, of 125 Smith Cove Road, Hertford, NC, died Saturday, January 23, 2021 in Vidant Chowan Hospital, Edenton.

   Mr. Smith was born in Perquimans County on February 8, 1940, and was the only son of five children born to Johnnie Martin and Hilda Byrum Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two of his sisters, Linda Joyce Smith and Eva Ann White; and by a grandson, Christopher Wayne Spivey.

   The owner and operator of Edenton Floral Company & Antiques (formerly Lula White’s Flower Shop) since 1968, he continued to work until his death. A faithful member and deacon of Edenton Baptist Church, he provided the flowers for the sanctuary every Sunday for many years.

   Community involvement included his longtime membership in the James Iredell Association where for over 30 years he chaired the committee on its furnishings, and served several terms as the Association’s president. He obtained many items and furniture that remain an integral part of the historic site, and worked tirelessly to furnish the home as it would have been when the Iredell family lived there. His work continued with the Historical and Preservation Commission on other historical homes throughout the state.

   Other areas of service included his time spent as a member of the North Carolina Army National Guard.

   Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Evelyn Foxworth Smith; three daughters, Crystal Bunch (husband, Art) of Hertford, Valerie Spivey of Edenton, and Amanda Betts (husband, Battle) of Elizabeth City; two sisters, Deborah S. Williams (husband, Billy) of Elizabeth City and Gail S. Smith (husband, Lewis) of Hertford; his brother-in-law, C.D. White (wife, Joanne) of Hertford; and four grandchildren, Justin Spivey, Corby Bunch, Lizzy Betts, and Parker Betts.

   A graveside funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. in Beaver Hill Cemetery and will be conducted by his pastor, The Rev. David Brooks. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, no formal visitation is being held, however friends may visit with the family at the graveside immediately following the service. Masks are required, and social distancing measures should be followed by those attending.

   Miller Funeral Home & Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.