Lauren Burke Smith Obituary, Death – Field Hockey Community Mourns Beloved Wife and Mother

Communities across North Carolina and the wider field hockey community are mourning the loss of Lauren Burke Smith, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend whose life touched people both on and off the field.

Lauren passed away peacefully on September 24 following a private, years-long battle with cancer, according to a tribute shared by her loved ones. Her family was by her side at the time of her death.

Remembering Lauren Burke Smith

For Lauren’s family, her most important role was that of wife and mother. She was devoted to her husband, Stu, and deeply loved her child, Burke.

Those close to Lauren remembered her for her warmth, compassion and fierce loyalty. She had a way of making people feel noticed, valued and cared for, whether they were family members, longtime friends or people she encountered through her work and the sport she loved.

Her passing has left Stu and Burke facing the heartbreaking loss of someone who was central to their family.

A Life Dedicated to Field Hockey

Lauren’s connection to field hockey spanned much of her life. She was a student-athlete at the University of Vermont before continuing her career in coaching and administration.

She served as an assistant coach at Sacred Heart University and Rutgers University and later became director of operations for Penn State Field Hockey.

Her work allowed her to influence athletes, coaches and colleagues across different programs, creating relationships that extended well beyond the playing field.

USA Field Hockey expressed sadness over Lauren’s death and offered condolences to her family, friends, former players, teammates and colleagues.

A Lasting Impact

While Lauren’s professional accomplishments were significant, her loved ones emphasized the personal qualities that made her special.

She was remembered as someone who cared deeply for others and made people feel important. Her kindness and attention to the people around her left lasting impressions on friends, family members, athletes and colleagues.

Those memories will now become an important part of the legacy she leaves behind.

Support for Lauren’s Family

A fundraising effort has been established to support Stu and Burke as they navigate life following Lauren’s death and deal with expenses associated with her passing.

Family and friends are encouraging those who are able to support the effort. For those who cannot contribute financially, sharing memories of Lauren, offering support or keeping her family in their thoughts is also meaningful.

Lauren’s Legacy

Lauren Burke Smith leaves behind a wide circle of people who knew and loved her. Her influence can be seen in the family she cherished, the friendships she built and the field hockey players and colleagues she supported throughout her career.

Although her battle with cancer was private, the impact of her life was felt by many.

Her memory will continue through Stu and Burke, her family and friends, and the athletes and members of the field hockey community whose lives she touched.

Lauren will be remembered for her compassion, loyalty, love for her family and the lasting difference she made in the lives of others.