Lillie Smith was born on June 14, 1952, in Haynesville, Alabama, to the late Eugene Steele and Ellen Lee.

Lillie later moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where she graduated from John Hay High School. After graduation, she began a career with Kirby, where she faithfully worked for more than 20 years. She was known for her dedication, strong work ethic, and friendly spirit.

At an early age, Lillie accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and became a member of Peace Baptist Church, where she developed a strong foundation of faith that remained with her throughout her life.

Family meant everything to Lillie. She treasured every opportunity to spend time with those she loved and especially enjoyed traveling back home to Alabama to reconnect with family and friends. She found joy in listening to music, reading tarot cards, playing the lottery, and visiting the casino. She also had a fondness for some of her favorite foods, including sausages, hot dogs, bologna, and her mother’s famous caramel cake. Lillie embraced life in her own unique way, and her sense of humor, loving heart, and vibrant personality brought happiness to everyone around her.

On July 23, 2026, Lillie peacefully departed this life, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love.

Lillie was preceded in death by both of her parents. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter, Rolanda Smith; her siblings: Margaret Goodwin (the late Robert Goodwin), Bobbie Hopkins (Larry Hopkins); (Bobbie preceded her in death), Shirley Smith, Eddie Smith (Naomi), Lee Smith, Ella See, Billy Lusane, and Frank Cook, all of Cleveland, Ohio; Roosevelt Reese (Silvia) of California; Lee Williams (Tammie) of Chicago, Illinois; Charles Williams (Bridget) of Kentucky; Earl Williams (Eva) of Georgia; and Elizabeth Davis (Ben), Mazola Brazzie, Annie Bell (Ronald), Velma Nelson (Howard), Richard Steele (Wanda), Roosevelt Williams (Felicia), Willie Williams (Teresa), Nella Greene (Robert), Valerie Hamilton (Douglas), Olivia Todd (Adarryl), Euderrick Steele and Gertrude Steele, all of Alabama. She also leaves a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Though she is no longer with us in body, Lillie’s love, laughter, and the countless memories she created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of faith, family, and perseverance will never be forgotten.