Jill Funderburk Smart

Jill Funderburk Smart passed away in her sleep on Friday evening, May 26, 2023, at the age of 49 years old. She was born on August 27, 1973, in Rocky Mount, NC to Dr. Henry Moser Funderburk and Barbara Baucom Funderburk (Gamble).

Jill was an honor graduate of Parkwood High School in Monroe. She graduated from UNCC with a Bachelor’s degree and then a Master’s degree with honors. She decided recently to pursue her doctorate and was halfway through the PhD program with a 4.0 GPA, at the University of Indiana when she passed away.

Jill had a varied and distinguished career which led her to follow her passion for teaching and became a beloved teacher at Porter Ridge High School in Indian Trail, NC. Jill taught AP Environmental Science and AP Anatomy and Physiology. Jill’s family is in possession of a stack of handwritten letters, written to Jill by her students that shows not only did she educate them with her unique teaching style but she impacted their lives by loving them as individuals and going above and beyond for each and every one of them.

Jill is survived by her husband Daniel Patrick Smart; children, Zoey Alexa and Luke Scott Adams; Stepchildren, Sarah Joy Smart and Josiah Daniel Smart; Mother, Barbara Baucom Gamble; Stepfather, Michael Gamble; Father, Dr. Henry Funderburk; Stepmother, Susan Baker Funderburk; Sister, Amy Hallisey Spicer; Brother-in-law, Matt Spicer; Nieces, Ashton Hallisey, Lydia Fesmire; Nephew, Lexton Hallisey and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and her furry, faithful companion Daisy.

Those who wish to pay their respects and offer condolences are invited to attend the visitation at Gordon Funeral Service, located at 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe NC on Saturday, June 3 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM. Jill’s Celebration of Life Service will be held at Oakland Baptist Church, located at 600 E. Sunset Drive, Monroe NC on Sunday, June 4 at 2:00 PM. A private Interment for family only will follow at Lakeland Memorial Park, located at 1901 Lancaster Ave, Monroe NC after the service.

Because of Jill’s passion for education, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to help Zoey and Luke with their next season of life as they pursue a degree or career. A GoFundMe page has been set up by Jill’s sister at https://www.gofundme.com/f/Zoey-and-Luke-Adams

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory is caring for the Smart family.