Vernita Smith, beloved daughter of the late Harriet Smith and Solomon Smith, born on September 5, 1959, in Cleveland, Ohio. She completed her education in East Cleveland city schools where she graduated from Shaw High School. Continuing her education at Cuyahoga Community College, where she proudly graduated with a degree in nursing as a Registered Nurse in 1987. Vernita dedicated herself to her profession, serving with distinction in various healthcare systems in Cleveland, with Select Medical being her cherished final workplace. Her commitment and compassion touched the lives of many patients and colleagues throughout her career.

Vernita was the loving mother of two children, Vernice Hixon and Justin Peterson. She was a devoted sister to Lakeshia Smith, Karen Mooring, and the late Derrick Smith. Vernita also held a special place in her heart for her niece and nephews, Courtney Smith, Cameron Smith, Jordan Smith, and Maliq Mooring. She will be deeply missed by a multitude of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, some of whom preceded her in death.

In her free time, Vernita was a dedicated member of a Sisters Circle, where she cherished the bonds of sisterhood and friendship. Her love for her community and her family was evident in everything she did. Vernita always opened her home to family and friends as her home was the place for many family gatherings. Vernita was a lifelong caretaker and compassionately cared for many of her aunts. She was a huge supporter of the local sports teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Cleveland Browns, and took great joy in watching their games. Vernita also enjoyed the game of tennis and found solace in the beauty of travel. Her latest passion was immersing herself in the world of stock market investments, where she displayed a keen interest and determination to learn and teach anyone who would listen as she always pushed for generational financial literacy.

Vernita was a believer of love through action and her love language was Acts of Service. As her cousins know, there was always something to do if you stopped by. Those visits would almost always end with a delicious meal, beer, wine, and laughs.

Vernita’s legacy of love, resilience, and strength will forever inspire those who had the privilege of sharing in her life’s journey. Though she is gone from our sight, she will never be absent from our hearts, and her memory will continue to bring comfort and love to those who hold her dear.

Vernita, rest peacefully knowing that your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts, and you will be deeply missed, but your love will live on in the countless lives you have touched.