Susan Birch Smith

Susan Birch Smith, of Chincoteague, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 14th, at Carroll Campbell Place in Lexington, South Carolina, at the age of 77.

Born on February 2, 1949, in Nassawaddox, Virginia, Susan was the cherished daughter of Louis T. Birch Sr. and Jean Elizabeth Birch. She spent most of her life in the close-knit community of Chincoteague, where she built lasting connections and touched countless lives.

For more than 25 years, Susan warmly welcomed guests at the front desk of the Refuge Motor Inn, where her kindness and genuine smile made every visitor feel at home. A devoted member of Union Baptist Church, she shared her beautiful voice generously, singing at weddings and within the church she held so dear.

Above all, Susan will be remembered for her deep love and devotion to her family. She was a beloved daughter, a devoted wife, and a nurturing mother and grandmother whose presence brought comfort, joy, and strength to those around her.

She leaves behind her loving children: her son, David Quillen Jr. and his wife Karla, and her daughter, Lorri Cold and her husband Marty. She is also survived by her step-sons, Don Smith and his wife Kelsey, and Pete Smith and his wife Emilie.

Susan’s legacy continues through her eleven grandchildren: Jonathan Britton and his wife Jaime; Joseph Cold and his wife Sara Kate; Sydney Cold; Indiana Quillen and her husband John; Savannah Malone and her husband Cameron; Austin Smith, Veronica Smith, Joseph Smith, Evelyn Smith, Olivia Smith, and Levi Smith.

She was also blessed with three beautiful great-grandchildren: Cheyenne Britton, Leighton Britton, and Axl James Britton.

She is further survived by her sister-in-law, Betsy Birch.

Susan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Randal Smith; her parents, Louis and Jean Birch; and her brother, Louis T. Birch Jr.

A memorial service celebrating Susan’s life will be held at a later date in Chincoteague, Virginia, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the love she so freely gave.

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