Merlene Smith
May 8, 1941 — March 1, 2024
Fowlstown, Georgia
Growing up in Bainbridge, Georgia, she was educated in the Decatur County School System. Throughout school, she was a very inquisitive student with a beaming temperament that was a ray of sunshine to peers, teachers and close friends.
Very early in life, Merlene was nurtured in the Word of GOD. As a youth, she accepted CHRIST as her SAVIOR and began her journey of Christian stewardship at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church. She was a faithful member who served willingly in numerous capacities in the church. In later years, she united with Emanuel Missionary Baptist Church. There, her love for GOD was strengthened, her spiritual gifts were nurtured, and she blended her melodious voice with the choir to minister in song. Through the years, she remained steadfast and unmovable; always giving GOD the glory and praise.
Merlene was joined in Holy Matrimony to Earlie West Smith, who preceded her in death. Together, they embarked on a life filled with love and true devotion to each other. For more than 40 years, she proved to be a true anchor and helpmate to her husband, and they were blessed with a loving family. As a wife and mother, she worked hard to consistently pursue excellence in her home, giving her best to her husband, children and grandchildren who held the key to her heart. Not only was she a meticulous homemaker but a great provider for her family as well. Merlene was an exceptionally persistent, conscientious employee with Thomas and Betts Lighting Company for innumerable years. She was proud of her work as a machine operator, and she always gave her BEST, no matter what the task.
Often described as a strong but gentle woman who definitely spoke her mind, Merlene was a joy to be around. She had a servant’s heart and felt most comfortable when helping others. In her family, she was the “calm in the storm—the glue that held them together”. She believed deeply in unconditional love, enjoyed the time spent with family and friends and took great pleasure in cooking delicious meals and cakes for family and friends to enjoy. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of being a part of her life.
On March 1, 2024, Merlene transitioned from this earthly life to eternal peace and rest with THE LORD. In addition to her parents and beloved husband, she was preceded in death by her son David Smith and three brothers Jimmy Wade, Billy Wade and Coley Wade.
Loving memories will forever be cherished by her devoted children, Benton Smith and Tammie Smith Shaw, both of Bainbridge, GA; six grandchildren; her siblings, Dollie Emanuel, Willie (Iola) Wade, both of Bainbridge, GA, Willie B. (Wendy) Wade, Gregory (Stacy) Wade, both of Quincy Fl, Booker T. Wade of Midway, FL, and Margie Wade of Tallahassee, FL; in-laws: Bennie (Shirley) Smith, William (Mary) Smith, Crystal Smith, and Paul Dean; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Service Schedule
Past Services
Viewing
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
1:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)
Close Funeral Home
Funeral Service
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Emanuel Missionary Baptist Church
Interment
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
Pine Grove Burial Aid Society Cemetery
Emanuel M. B. Church, 161 Emanuel Church Road, Bainbridge, GA 39819
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