Julia Smith Nivens, 93, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 20, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born in Forest City, North Carolina, on May 25, 1933, she was the youngest of three daughters born to Rose Eaves Smith and Robert Lee (R.L.) Smith.
A graduate of Harris High School, Julia attended Western Carolina University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education. During her college years she met her first husband, Lee Finger. They settled in Waynesville, North Carolina, and were blessed with a son and two daughters. For many years, Julia gave her heart to her students as a teacher at Hazelwood Elementary. Known for most of her career as “Miss Finger,” she left a legacy of kindness and dedication on the minds of young people.
Later in life, Julia found love again with Jack Nivens. The two shared 27 years together until his passing in 2007.
Julia was a devoted mother, wife, and daughter. She enjoyed life, and she always cheered loudly for her favorite sports teams, especially the Atlanta Braves. She picked up reading as a hobby in her eighties and was proud to have read over 200 books.
She is survived by her son Tim Finger and his wife Carleene of Lake Junaluska; her daughter Lynne Finger of Waynesville; and her daughter Carole Finger and her husband Jerry Stensland of Rutherfordton; her nieces Lisa Hipp of Greensboro, Ann Smith of Asheville, Sharon Smith of Raleigh, and nephew Stuart Cartner of Dallas, Texas. Julia was predeceased by her sisters Rachel Smith and Joan Cartner.
The family extends a special thank you to Julia’s dear friends Karen and Mike Davis, who were like family to her and brought so much joy and comfort to her life.
Per Julia’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Instead, her family asks that you honor her memory by cheering for your favorite teams, curling up with a book, or making a memorial contribution to one of her favorite local animal rescue organizations: