Deaconess Emma Lee Smith

Emma Lee Hayward Smith was born on April 1, 1947, in East Hastings, Florida. She was the sixth daughter of ten children born to James Hayward and Gertrude McKnight Hayward. She graduated from Harris High School in Hastings, Florida in 1966 where she was crowned Ms. Harris High. After high school, she obtained her Associate’s Degree and worked in the Healthcare field until she retired from St. Vincent’s Medical Center.

In 1967, Emma married Earnest “Buck” Smith, and to this thirty-one-and-a-half-year union, two children, Kendra and Earnest, were born.

After relocating to Jacksonville in 1977, Emma joined St. Matthew Baptist Church, where she faithfully served under the leadership of Reverend George A. Price. As a devoted Deaconess, she also lovingly managed the church kitchen before her health declined, taking great pride in her service. Her love for her church family and pastor was evident to all who knew her.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents, James and Gertrude; brothers, James Hayward Jr. (NY), Willie James (Armstrong, FL), Elijah Sr. (St. Augustine, FL), and Kenneth L. (Armstrong, FL); sisters, Dorothy “Dot” Covil, Ruth Williams (Armstrong, FL), and Doretha Session (Central Islip, N.Y.), and grandson, Demontré “Tré” Smith (Jacksonville, FL).

Surviving loved ones include daughter, Kendra Smith-Reed (Dwayne); son, Earnest H. Smith, II (Tavia); seven grandchildren, Kiauna, Kiaura, Ta’Nya, Kimaya, Ta’Naeja, Earnest, III, and Eli; brothers, Lewis (Norma) of Jacksonville, FL, Lorenzo of Orlando, FL; sisters, Yolanda Miller and Shashika Rasher both of East Palatka, FL; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends.

Emma will always be remembered for her sweet spirit, her boundless love for her grandchildren, and her faithful dedication to Christ. We will cherish her life and legacy in our hearts forever.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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