Edna Delores (Reese) Smith was born to Joseph Reese and Esther Hogan Reese in Cleveland, Ohio on November 3, 1932.  Edna was one of 14 children in the Reese household and they were truly a “close knit family”.

Edna graduated from John Hay High School.  She held several positions throughout the greater Cleveland area that included the following jobs; manufacturing, commercial cleaning, lunch aide with Cleveland Public Schools, food server with several country clubs and babysitting.   Edna loved being a comedian, she loved sharing jokes with her family.  Whenever her birthday came around she would always say, “I’m sweet 16 and never been kissed” or “I’m old enough to eat black-eyed peas and cornbread without getting chocked”.  Edna would never share her true age with anyone. 

Edna accepted Christ at an early age and committed to a life-long service in various ministries, including 50 plus years to the Elders Ministry providing consistent goodwill, support and encouragement to East Mt. Zion Baptist Church.  Her mission work included serving as an usher and a junior usher.  She also participated in Sunday school, the junior choir and the junior missionary guild.

Edna was joined in Holy Matrimony in 1971 to Daniel Smith Jr., lovingly referred to as “Smitty”, who preceded her in death.  Together they raised eight children, providing love, support and guidance, to Jacqueline and Daryl (who both preceded her in death), Gregory (Paula), Ronald, Tyrone, Cynthia, LaShawn (Trina), and Carmen.

Edna was known in her community as “mom”.  No matter the circumstances she always had a warm, loving , contagious smile and a big heart.   Edna rarely had a cross word for anyone.  She cherished her time with her family, entertaining, cooking and particularly renowned for her peach cobbler and cinnamon rolls.

A lover of gospel music, Edna also enjoyed secular music with her siblings, often showcasing her dance moves, even from her wheelchair.  We have the video to prove it. 

Edna transitioned in peace leaving behind a legacy of love and joy.  She is survived by her children Gregory (Paula), Ronald, Tyrone, Cynthia, LaShawn (Trina) and Carmen; grandchildren Tyrone, Seconda, Byron Jr., Shequetta, Brandon, Phylicia, and Tyreisha; 26 great-grandchildren; 20 great-great-grandchildren; a sister Hilda and a brother Curtis.