Vivian Vandiver Smith

Vivian Vandiver Smith of Cleveland, Georgia, age 94, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, after a period of declining health.

Vivian lived all of her life in White County.   She was born in Helen GA in 1930 at her grandmother’s home located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River.  As a young girl she moved into the White County Jail since her dad had been elected sheriff.  At age 18 she was hired as one of the first two employees of The People’s Bank and enjoyed years in the banking industry taking care of thousands of customers.  She also worked along side her husband keeping the books of his tire business for almost 50 years .  His joke for all their married life was that he got her out of jail to marry her.  After retiring, she helped with her triplet grandson’s and volunteered with her church and various charities in the community.

Vivian is preceded in death by her parents, Lat and Harriett Vandiver. Her husband Jack W Smith and her brothers Jim Vandiver, Franklin (Buzz) Vandiver, Dan Vandiver and sister Peggy Irvin.

Vivian is survived by her sons Steve Smith of Cleveland, GA, Stan Smith of Rock Hill, SC, daughter and son in law Susan Adams (Tracy) of Cleveland.  Grandchildren Jonah Simmons (Tiffany), Joe Adams, Peter Adams (Abby), Ben Adams (Kaylynn), Alex and Rachel Smith, and five great grandchildren.  Her sister in laws Jimmie Vandiver, Mildred Vandiver and Miriam Vandiver, special niece Tracy Vandiver Smith and many more nephews and nieces.

The family would like to thank the staff of Laurel Lodge and Caritas Hospice for loving and caring for her just like she was their mother.

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 pm January 19, 2025, at the Cleveland First Methodist Church where she attended all of her life.    There will be a time to visit with the family following the service in the fellowship hall.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Eagle Ranch PO Box 7200 Chestnut Mt GA 30502 or Cleveland First Methodist Church PO Box 1226 Cleveland GA 30528

To Share a memory or leave condolences for the family you can go to www.barrettfh.com

Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland is in charge of arrangements. 706-865-3101--