Jeanne Marie (Ballou) Smith

In Loving Memory of our Mom,
Jeanne Ballou Smith 

May 5, 1947 – September 30, 2025

On September 30th at 7:43 p.m., our remarkable and beloved mother, Jeanne Ballou Smith, peacefully passed away, joining the angels in heaven. Her light, love, and grace will forever be cherished in our hearts.

Jeanne was born to Theodore and Julia Ballou on May 5, 1947, in New York. She was the first born of five sisters, joining Julia, Jayne, Janet, and Jackie, all of whom she adored deeply. While she was born in New York, Jeanne and her family relocated to Burnsville, North Carolina, where she spent her adolescent and teenage years, creating lifelong memories.

A proud graduate of Mercy School of Nursing in Charlotte, Jeanne obtained her license as a registered nurse—a milestone she was incredibly proud of throughout her life. She served in the Navy, a time she looked back on with honor. During her service, she met the love of her life, Stephen Stanton Smith. They married on November 28, 1970 beginning a lifelong journey together. Their love story unfolded through many cities—from Charlotte to Bennettsville, High Point, and Kernersville—and the life they built together was nothing short of magical. Jeanne often recalled the day Stephen proposed, saying, “No day will ever be the same,” and indeed, it was a love that transformed everything.

Jeanne was a fierce and devoted mother to her five children: Andrew Gerety (Bara), Patrick Michael (Kory), Katherine Ballou (Marc), Joseph Ryan “Moms favorite” (Erin) , and her youngest “Mom’s caboose”, Meaghan Knibbs. She believed deeply in the power of prayer and often expressed her gratitude for the healthy children God had blessed her with. Her love for us knew no bounds, and she made sure we knew just how much we meant to her.

As a grandmother, Jeanne’s love only grew. Her grandchildren, whom she lovingly called her “grand bunnies,” were the light of her life: Nicholas, Bradey, Colsen, Hailey, Leila, Holt, Kinsley, Ava, and Hollie. She was a proud grandmother who couldn’t wait to share stories about her precious grandchildren with anyone who would listen.

In her passing, we are reminded of how many lives Jeanne touched with her grace, kindness, and unwavering love. She had a rare ability to make everyone around her feel loved and accepted, regardless of the circumstances. Her infectious smile, gentle heart, and fierce spirit will forever remain in our memories.

Jeanne’s love was unconditional, her strength incomparable. She had an optimism that was contagious- that was her lens on life.
Mom’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her.

A Catholic Mass will be held Friday, October 24, 2025, 11 AM, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, High Point, North Carolina.

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