Deacon Mary A. Smith

Deacon Mary Alice Smith, longtime resident of Richmond, Virginia, died on October 13th, 2024.  Mary was one of six children born to Casey Lee Smith, Sr., and Mary Jones Smith on November 16th, 1936.  At an early age, and after giving birth to her daughter, she moved to New York City where she resided for 27 years.

Mary relocated to Virginia in 1972.  She joined Shiloh Baptist Church in 1988.  After giving her life to the Lord, Mary was baptized and joyfully served as an usher.  After serving in this capacity, Mary became a Sunday school teacher and eventually superintendent of the Sunday school.  Mary ensured that her nephew, nieces, and granddaughters had a solid biblical foundation as children. She, along with her sister Queen, made sure each child knew the week’s memory verse and could recite it in front of the church! 

Additionally, she was an active member of the Willing Worker ministry. Willing Workers were women in the church who passionately served the community, fed the homeless population, cleaned the church, and any other tasks where they could be of assistance. Mary had a unique ability to connect with people, and in her work at the church and in the community, Mary showed her desire to learn and grow and to reach the people she could help.  

Mary was an avid reader and had thousands of books in her possession.  She loved Danielle Steele novels and loved reading and studying her bible as well.  Mary had the ability to make you laugh (especially on a phone call)!  She was a survivor and literally fought to the end. Deacon Mary Smith leaves to cherish her memory her only daughter Janet Scott (Smith), her only living sister, Queen Hayes, one devoted nephew Antonio (“Tony”) Shelton, Devoted friends and caretakers, Rev. Isaac and Patricia Mines, her granddaughters Regina Harris (Smith) and Rosita Smith, and a host of relatives and friends.  Mary also leaves to cherish her memory the Molster family (John, Janie, John, Robert, Pierre, Swain, and Isabel).  Mary was woven into the fabric of their lives and likewise, they were woven into hers.  Not every family is connected by blood.  Some are forever connected by a mutual love and respect for one another. 

A viewing will be held from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024 at Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5008 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA, where a funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, October 26, 2024. 

The family is receiving services of comfort from Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5008 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA.