Lela Mae Smith's Obituary
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.
What’s your fondest memory of Lela?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lela?
Share a story where Lela's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lela you’ll never forget.
How did Lela make you smile?
