Obituary of Rev. Willie F. Smith

REV. WILLIE FRANK SMITH came into this world on February 18, 1930 in Greenville, Alabama to the late John and Norabell Smith.  He was affectionately known as "Dannan".  He made his triumphant transition to glory on August 14, 2019.  He was a 58year resident of Monticello, New York.

He married Era Mae Robinson on April 8, 1950 in Greenville, Alabama and remained married until his death.

In Greenville, Alabama, Willie worked on the railroad before relocating to New York.  While in New York, Willie was employed at Walter Rapp Nursery, Murray Glick Auto Sales, and Crystal Run Village.

Willie leaves to cherish his loving wife Era Mae Smith, of Liberty, New York, his son Arthur Mack Sr. (Bea) of Monticello, New York, his adopted son Bruce Smith (Andrea), of Port St. Lucie, Florida, daughter Rosie Solomon of Florida, adopted daughter Amanda Smith of Monticello, New York, 15 Grandchildren, 17 Great-Grandchildren, 14 Great-Great-Grandchildren; a foster parent to many; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was predeceased by his daughter Gloria Williams, adopted son Robert Smith, grandson Kenneth Williams and two great granddaughters.

Reverend Smith began serving God at an early age.  While a member of Pine Level Baptist Church of Greenville, Alabama, he joined and remained a member of the Master Masons Lodge 125-A, of the F. and A.M. of Alabama, Prince Hall Affiliation.  In 1969 he joined the First Baptist Church of Monticello, New York, under Rev. Brookward Bush.  Here he continued as an active church member where he served as a Sunday school teacher and Superintendent of Sunday School. Subsequently, Rev. James Leroy Matthews became Pastor of the First Baptist Church and under his leadership Rev. Smith became a Deacon and was called to the ministry.  He was licensed to preach the gospel and was ordained.  During his service in Monticello, he became affiliated with the Sullivan County Ministerial Board which is dedicated to ministering in the prisons in the area. 

When God called him to preach the gospel, he did not take the call lightly.  He knew that in order to properly Pastor, he must be fully prepared and well educated in God's word.  Rev. Smith along with Sister Smith and Rev. Mary Alli travelled to the Bethel Bible Institute in Jamaica, New York.  Rev. Smith pastored Beulah Baptist Church, Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church, and later Friendship Baptist Church for many years; and remained a dedicated Associate Minister until illness brought him to the Sullivan County Adult Care Center.

 I am at peace, my souls at rest there is no need for tears

with your love I was so blessed for all those many years.