Sarah LouEllen Hamilton Smith, 80, of Shelby, passed away Thursday, August 27, 2026 at the Wendover Hospice House. A native of Mecklenburg County, she was born May 11, 1946 to the late Paul Webster Hamilton and Lora Bright Hamilton.

Sarah was a devoted homemaker for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Edwin Smith.

Survivors include her sisters, Marie Hamilton Young and husband Junior, of Stanley, and Paula Ann Hamilton Anthony and husband Robert, of Shelby; and her nieces and nephews.

A service from the graveside will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at Forest Lawn West Memorial Park, 4601 Freedom Dr., Charlotte, NC 28208 with Reverend Richard Stroup officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the VIA Hospice Partners of Cleveland County.

Online condolences can be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family.