Laura Alice Smith

Laura Alice Strong was born on October 29, 1936, in Marks, Mississippi. She was born to Bargie and Johnnie Strong and had four siblings – two brothers James Strong and Johnnie Strong, and two sisters Lizzie Lyles and Tannie Jaminson. Laura accepted Christ at Jones Chaple Belen, MS, at a young age. She married Belmon Smith and became Laura Alice Smith. Later, she moved to Santa Ana, California, Together, they had six children, daughters Ester L Brown and Lee Vater Williams, sons L.C. Smith, Joseph Smith, Samuel Lee Smith, and Dennis Smith. She also took care of and committed to being a foster mother to Ladonna Williams, Cameron Collins, Darius, and Natasha Nacoste.

Laura Alice Smith was also an Eastern Star and held that position with pride. She had a heart full of love and compassion for everyone around her, and always made sure to put her best foot forward.

Laura Alice Smith passed away on Thursday February 8, 2024, she is preceded in death by her parents, Bargie and Johnnie Strong, her husband Belmon Smith, two siblings Johnnie Strong and James Strong, and two children, Samuel Lee Smith, and Lee Vater Williams. However, she will always be remembered by her daughter Ester L Brown, her sons L.C. Smith, Joseph Smith, and Dennis Smith, as well as by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was also deeply loved by her niece Dorothy Jean, and by her grandsons Joel and PeeWee. Her legacy will live on through her loved ones and the memories they hold dear.