Lane Winston Smith

Lane Winston Smith, 76, of Valdosta, died peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 16, 2017. She was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on July 6, 1941, to the late Dr. Richard K. ("Dick") Winston and Clara Puckett Winston. In 1946 her family moved south, to Tifton, and when she was twelve years old the Winston's moved to Valdosta. Lane attended Valdosta City Schools for many years, but received her high school diploma from Gulf Park College in Gulfport, MS. After briefly attending Emory University and Valdosta State College, she graduated from the University of Georgia in 1963. While there she was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority. After graduating she returned to Valdosta, where she soon met and married Dr. Briggs Smith on March 18, 1965. In these early years, she was a wonderful mother to two boys, caring for them and managing their activities and schedules. She also worked for several years during this time with Marie Smith as decorators at Georgian Interiors. Lane has always been very active in the community both socially and as a volunteer. For many years, she was very active with the Mystery Ball Club and The National Society of Colonial Dames. She delivered meals with Break Bread and was active with the Junior Service League. Lane was the consummate entertainer, preparing food and parties for family and friends. She loved to travel to New York with Briggs and to the beach with her friends, and many other places.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Dr. Briggs Smith, Sr. of Valdosta; two sons and daughters-in-law: Briggs & Wendy Smith of Marietta, and Winston & Amanda Smith of Fairhope, AL; two sisters and brothers-in-law: Peggy & Dr. Wally McDonald of St. Joseph, MO, and Libba Winston & Kevin Sweeney of Tampa, FL; her brother and sister-in-law Rick & Susan Winston of Leesburg; her four grandchildren, Mason Smith, Ellis Smith, Winston Smith, Jr. and Gray Smith, all of Fairhope, AL. Also surviving are her uncle and two aunts, Col. (US Army, Ret.) Ralph & Jeannie Puckett, and Billie Puckett; several nieces and nephews, and many grandnieces and grandnephews. Lane was preceded in death by her brother, John Paul Winston, whom she lovingly cared for during the last years of his life.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 23, 2017 at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Bob Moon officiating. A private committal will follow in Sunset Hill Cemetery. There will be a reception with food and refreshments for the family and friends on Saturday from 5-7 p.m. at Park Place, 108 W. Park Ave. In lieu of flowers donations to First United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home.


Funeral Home:
Carson McLane Funeral Home
2215 North Patterson Street
Valdosta, GA
US 31602