Almeta Smith Apple

Almeta Smith Apple, 88, passed away peacefully at her home on February 1, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Guilford County, she was the daughter of the late Frank T. Smith Sr. and Jettie Kernodle Smith and was married for over 66 years to Paul McKinley Apple, who passed in 2023. 

Almeta was a true example of a Godly woman, dedicating her life to her family and her community. With a servant's heart, she opened her home to everyone and made sure that no one ever left her table hungry. Almeta also had a passion for sewing and gardening. 

As the eldest of 16 siblings, Almeta naturally assumed the role of caregiver, not only for her brothers and sisters but also for her father and mother- in -law in their later years. Her nurturing spirit extended to children in the community as well, working at Apple’s Chapel Daycare where she shared her love generously with the little ones in her care.

Almeta was an active member of Hope River Church, formerly known as Brown Wesleyan Church, where she participated in various church activities, fostering friendships and connections that lasted a lifetime. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, providing strength and encouragement to those around her.

Almeta is survived by her children, Paula Maness (Jeff), Steve McKinley Apple, and Heather Calhoun (Dennis), along with her grandchildren: Meredith Bridges (E.J.), Jonathan Maness (Anne), and Dustin Calhoun. Also, she will be remembered fondly by her three great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her later years.

In addition to her immediate family, Almeta shared a special bond with her living brothers: Wayne Smith, Richard Smith, Charles Smith, David Smith, Glenn Smith, Darrell Smith, and Ralph Smith, and her sisters: Jewel Hutchens, Barbara Chilton, and Frances Worley, who have countless memories of laughter and love from their time together.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Paul McKinley Apple, as well as her parents, Frank Thomas Smith, Sr. and Jettie Elizabeth Kernodle Smith. Almeta was also preceded by her brothers Frank Smith, Jr., Leland Smith, Jackie Smith, and Dale Smith, and her sister Louise Tippett.

A service to celebrate Almeta’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday February 4, 2025 at Hope River Church by Rev. Larry Pope with the graveside to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:00 – 1:45 prior to the service at the church. 

Memorials may be made to Mobile Meals Rt. 279, 1401 Benjamin Parkway, Senior Resources of Guilford, Greensboro, NC 27408.