Lela Mae Smith

Lela Mae Smith entered our world on August 2, 1944, in New Hebron, Mississippi. She was the third born of thirteen beloved blessings to Leroy and Bertha Lee (Weathersby) Smith. She was affectionately named after her paternal grandmother, Lela Mae (Fortenberry) Smith. She is now reunited in eternity with her dear parents and siblings: Lue B. Williams, Kenneth Smith, Bessie Cooper, Terry Smith, and Christine Moore. Upon graduating from New Hymn High School in 1966, Lela felt God’s divine call, compelling her to move to St. Louis, Missouri. There, she found warmth and guidance in the home of her uncle and aunt, J.B. and Mollie (Everett) Smith. She later moved in with her cousin Verneas Cunningham. As a young teenager, she had admired the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) movement from afar and was determined to become a part of its ministry. In 1967, she joined Old Landmark COGIC, guided by the late Founder and Superintendent, W.T. Williams. Lela's faith journey was profound; she embraced her salvation with a heart full of devotion, becoming saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Ghost. Her commitment to the church was unwavering, as she poured her soul into singing and leading the choir, eventually serving as its president. She also offered her skills to the Finance Committee as one of the church's Financial Secretaries. Lela's dedication extended beyond music. She acknowledged her call to the teaching ministry, and shortly after became an Evangelist Missionary. She would go on to serve as the President of the Missionary Department, a Sunday School Teacher, and a member of the Mothers’ Board and District Sunday School Superintendent. As God inspired her, a multitude of gifts were presented in her life. The Midwest Regional Music Conferences, Women’s Conventions, Holy Convocations, and Women’s Retreats were but a few honors she enjoyed. She remained a devoted member of Old Landmark Temple, serving under both the late Emeritus Superintendent Albert G. Hollins and Administrative Assistant and Superintendent Ronald Moore. As a loving mother, raising two wonderful sons, Stanley and Orlanda, her unwavering support for their endeavors is evident in the people they have become today. Her career as a seamstress spanned over 25 years, and other employment opportunities provided the love and care required to show her sons an amazing life of faith and fortitude. Her love for the children of others concluded her professional journey in Child Care Development for over a decade. Her Grandchildren would extend the realm of her genuine love she shared with children. As a retiree, she continued to work by fulfilling her dream of becoming certified in Administrative and Secretarial Services from the Vanderschmidt School of Business in 2008. As an advocate for the civic needs of others, she would advocate for men’s health, encouraging prostate screenings, and serving as Treasurer of her local STL Union Retirees Club. Her community duties extended into working at the Election Polls and the Census Bureau. Family and fun were at the heart of Lela’s life. She embarked on countless adventures—cruises, island visits, vacation resorts, and family trips across states—always embracing every new experience with enthusiasm. Her presence in their lives is met now with an enormous void, as her love for her family was a great blessing to them. A cherished wish came true on August 3, 2024, when Lela celebrated her 80th birthday surrounded by loved ones. Her delight was evident in her appreciation for the grand gesture that her loved ones made possible for her to enjoy. Just four months shy of her 81st birthday, she peacefully answered the Lord’s call on the morning of April 24, 2025, transitioning to her eternal rest. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23. She worked towards the kingdom and has now received her just reward. Lela leaves behind an abundance of loving memories with: her sons ~ Stanley Smith (Assistant Pastor) and Orlanda (Dr. Kem) Smith; her grandchildren ~ Jasmine Mack, Trevon Gee, Breonna (Jesse) Dunigans, Jaylin Smith and Joy Smith; her great-grandchildren ~ Keon, Tyloe, Jesse, Kelsey, Rashad and Judah; her brothers ~ Troy C. Smith, Lynell (Delores) Smith and James Smith; her sisters ~ Geneva Walker, Irene Smith, Lue Gussie (James) May and Jonita Smith; her brother-in-law ~ Dr. Theodore Williams; her God-sisters ~ Joyce Jennings and Lucille Snow; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and the entire family of the Old Landmark Temple COGIC.

Tributes

Lela Mae Smith

August 2, 1944 - April 24, 2025