Verna Pearl Smith

Verna Pearl Smith was born on October 9, 1933 in Opelika, Alabama to the late Lottie Mae and Steele Madden. She was one of seven children, four of which proceeded her in death; Jean Bandy, Phillip Madden, Charles Madden and James Madden.

Verna later moved to Detroit and graduated from Northwestern High School, Married and had four children. Her oldest daughter Audrey Scott preceded her in death.  She attended Wayne Community College, University of Detroit where she completed her nursing degree.  Later remarried to Walter Smith who proceeded her in death.

Verna worked or 40+ years as a Registered nurse in several Detroit area hospitals, she also worked as an industrial nurse for Chrysler corporation and ended her nursing career working for the Detroit board of education for special needs students.

Verna was a very active member of True Love Missionary Baptist church in Detroit, where she served on the Devine Mothers of favor prayer ministry, Nurse’s Guild, Senior user board and Pastor’s anniversary committee.

Verna enjoyed cooking and entertaining friends and family on all holidays and special occasions. Her most famous desert was the DUMP cake. She would whip one up at the drop of the hat. Anyone blessed to experienced it never got over how good it was.

In 2020 Verna’s daughter relocated her to Georgia near her, so that she could better care for her.  In Georgia Verna was a resident at a beautiful assisted living community where she continued to flourished and continue her life as an active senior. There, she was named the RESIDENT AMBASSADOR, was active in the weekly book club, weekly bible study, Women’s day Tea, bingo, Veteran day activities, and most of all, Friday afternoon happy hours. She truly loved her Legacy Ridge Family, especially her “good best buddy” Mrs. Fanny Jenkins.  They were like two peas in a pod. They developed a special sisterly bond.

Verna leaves to cherish her memory one daughter Wanda Miller, two sons Carston Spratling, Louis Spratling, four step-children: Terilyn Bolton, Gail Jenkins, David Smith (Denise) and Angele Smith. Seven grandchildren Erica (Derrick), David, Danita, Semaj, Kyle, Korey and David Jr. two beloved great grandchildren: Dawson and Jaxson Holifield, two sisters, Odessa Dardy of Detroit and  Ozell Allen Woodstock, Georgia, two God daughters: Venita Rosemond and Andrea Salazar, Her long time beloved and devoted companion Richard Brown; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.