Joy Fowler Smith, age 52, of Rutherfordton

Joy Fowler Smith, age 52, of Rutherfordton, NC, died Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

She was the daughter of the late Roy Fowler and the late Lorena Richards Fowler and a native of Rutherford County. Joy worked at the Hospice House of Carolina Foothills for over 15 years.

Joy is survived by her husband, Derek Smith, her daughter, Savannah Smith, her son, Noah Smith, her brother, Jeff Fowler (Denise), nephew, Zack Fowler (Nicole) and niece Sierra Fowler and her beloved pets; Eddie, Abbie, Willie and Neb.

A gathering of family and friends was held January 10 at McMahan's Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Carolina Foothills; PO Box 336; Forest City, NC 28043.

McMahan's Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.