Obituary of Norma Jean Smith

Norma Jean Smith, age 54, passed away peacefully at her residence in Little Snowbird surrounded by her family. She was born on April 20, 1968 in Swain County, to Tom and Jeanette Teesateskie. She worked for Harrah’s Cherokee Casino as a Gaming Technician for over 20 years. In her spare time, she enjoyed fishing and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren but Riley was her world. Norma is survived by her sons Bobby Smith of Little Snowbird and Tommy Teesateskie (Sarah) of Cherokee. Daughters Precious Maney and Riley Teesateskie of the home, Fashia Teesateskie and Jill Swayney both of Little Snowbird. Grandchildren Dayton Wilnoty, Lorenzo Wilnoty, Jr., Levi and Lane, Liam Teesateskie, and Lylah Belle Crowe. Sisters Christina McCoy (Steve) of Marble, Donna Sue McCracken (Lonnie) of Stecoah, and Blanche Teesateskie of Cherokee. In addition, she is survived by her Mother-in-Law, Lucille Smith of Cherokee and many nieces and nephews which she loved dearly. She is preceded in death by her husband James “Eddie” Smith, Daughter Felica “Belle” Smith, parents Tom and Jeanette Teesateskie, brothers Ronnie Teesateskie, Steve Teesateskie, Patrick Teesateskie, and her sister Barbara Owl. James Teesateskie, Keith Logan, Robbie Teesateskie, Tommy Teesateskie, Logan Teesateskie, Adam Wachacha and Zane Wachacha will serve as pallbearers. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM Sunday at Zion Hill Baptist Church. Rev. Ernie Stiles will officiate with burial at Taylor Family Cemetery in Cherokee, NC. The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until Midnight Saturday at Zion Hill Baptist Church.