Mary L. Smith

In the afternoon hours of April 14, 2002, God looked over the balcony of glory and saw the condition of His servant, Mary Lillie Smith. She had been ill for some time. An angel was dispatched to her, who spoke softly to Mary saying, “Come unto me, and I will give you eternal rest.” She accepted the call and rose to a higher realm to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Mary, daughter of the late Willie Walker and Smithie Jane Walker was born on February 23, 1936, in Edenton, North Carolina. She grew up and went to school there until she was fifteen years of age. In 1951, she moved to Baltimore, Maryland where she met the love of her life, Thomas. Mary and Thomas were married on December 20, 1952. Out of this union, seven children; six girls and one boy were born. Mary was a devoted wife and very loving and caring mother. She was more than a full time mom providing a warm and inviting environment for her children to grow; she was also a mom to so many others. She raised several of her grandchildren and kept some of the neighborhood children. Her home was a gathering place for fellowship for relaxation and Sunday and holiday meals. Outside of the home, Mary was a well-respected woman in her community. People everywhere saw her kind spirit and pure heart. She also enjoyed becoming a member of the Eastern Star family. Mary loved the Lord and strived to do God’s will in her life. She encouraged each of her children to do the same and follow after Jesus. Mary carried her cross in life never complaining much about the burdens she had to bear. Even when she fell ill to a series of stokes in 1989, and could not care for herself or others as she once did, she continued to radiate with love and understanding. Never once did she utter one word about why she had to travel this road in life. He final years, months, and days was spent at Sandtown Nursing Home where she peacefully went on to be with the Lord. She leaves to cherish her memory: her husband Thomas of 49 years; five daughters, Sandra L. Smith, Kathleen Smith, Robin M. Smith, Joyce A. Hooey, and Jacqueline E. Smith; one son, Thomas Smith Jr., one son-in-law, Michael R. Holley; one sister, Hanna, one sister-in-law, Virginia Walker; twelve grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; one great aunt, Lucia Cozart and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Although she leaves many behind, she goes to Glory to join her parents; one brother, Willie Walker; two sisters, Cora Lee Smith and Willa Bryant and most recently deceased, her eldest daughter, the late Barbara Jean Smith.

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Mary L. Smith

February 23, 1936 - April 14, 2002