Hallie Bell Smith

HALLIE BELL JEFFERS SMITH was born to the late Willie Jeffers and Halle Burton on April 22, 1930 in Danville, Virginia. She was the twelfth child; and all other siblings preceded her in death. She was called home on June 8, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. She was a proud member of the Mount Lebanon Baptist Church for over forty-five years. Hallie was named after her mother, Halle Burton, who passed after giving birth to Hallie. She was adopted by her biological mothers’ family, the Wades’ on a farm in South Boston, Virginia. She remained in South Boston until she completed high school in Halifax County. Hallie then attended cosmetology school in Durham, North Carolina. After her time in North Carolina, she returned home to South Boston to acquire more training as a nursing assistant with Westinghouse. Her training at Westinghouse offered her an opportunity to move north to Baltimore City, Maryland shortly around 1950. It was in Baltimore where she began her family with her husband, the late Roscoe Franklin L. Smith. They raised four wonderful children: Jacqueline, Linda, Jose and Roscoe Junior (Roscoe Junior’s death preceded her in 1989) throughout West Baltimore. Known for her humor, charm, and determination, Hallie was the true matriarch for her family. Whether it was telling a story with passion and wit, cooking a signature dish, praying for family members or giving everyone her advice; you knew she would be ready, willing and able. Hallie Bell Smith will be remembered for her penchant, for stylish clothes and soul food, especially desserts and her limitless devotion to her family. Her straightforward personality and heart of gold will continue to be her strongest legacy for all who had the pleasure of meeting her. She leaves with fond memories: her children, Jacqueline Cheek (son-in-law, Elijah), Linda Tong (son-in-law, Dalton) and Jose Smith; grandchildren, Andre, India, Sophia, Elijah, Nicole, Cassondra, Tracee, Saunterea, Sarah, Rachael and Tyree; great-grandchildren, Janaya, Miles, Morgan, Khaleil, Elijah James, James and DeAndre; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

Tributes

Hallie Bell Smith

January 22, 1930 - June 8, 2013