LaRue Helton Smith, 74, of Hickory, N.C., passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Carolina Caring in Newton. She was born January 21, 1951 in Catawba County, the daughter of the late Ralph Andrew Helton and Alma Sue Pope Helton.

LaRue worked as a Daycare Director for over 20 years for the Baptist Children’s Home, Care House in Lenoir, where she poured her heart into 120 babies. She was a member of Dudley Shoals Baptist Church, where she was part of the BYWOM of the church. She enjoyed watching the Hallmark Channel and spending time at the beach, and she loved her church group. She never met a stranger and touched the lives of many. She loved her family, especially the grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Frank Helton.

Those left to cherish and honor LaRue’s memories include her daughters, Samantha Jolly (Rick) of Hickory and Tiffany Huffman (Justin) of Conover; her grandchildren, Caity Withers, Hailey Huffman, William Barlow, Bash and Jules Huffman; her great-grandchildren, Keegan Pendergrast and Kohen Huffman; her sisters, Brenda Moretz of Grace Chapel and Wendy Taylor (Terry) of Hudson; her brothers, Mike Helton (Becky) and Jeff Helton (Maria), all of Grace Chapel, and Shawn Overcash (Lori) of Taylorsville; and a large extended family and friends.

The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Dudley Shoals Baptist Church. Pastor Kyle Lloyd will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12 noon until 1 p.m. prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Local Chapter, c/o Kendra Dyson, 57 Dyson Lane, Taylorsville, NC 28681.

Condolences may be sent to www.adamsfunerals.com.

Adams Funeral Home and Cremation Services are honored to be serving the family of LaRue Helton Smith.