Gwendolyn Juanita Smith

Gwendolyn Juanita Smith, 84, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, transitioned to her Heavenly home on Monday, December 23, 2024. She was the daughter of the late William M. Smith and Bertha E. Smith. Ms. Smith was born and raised in Bluefield, West Virginia, where she graduated from Park Central High School. Prior to moving to Columbus, Ohio, she graduated from Bluefield State College with her Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics. She became a proud member of the Beta Omicron Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at Bluefield State College on December 9, 1961. Ms. Smith also earned her Master’s Degree in Education from The Ohio State University. 

After graduating from Bluefield State College, she held several positions, including a teaching position in Hampton, Virginia. Later in her career, her passion for special education led her to serve as a counselor and supervisor with the Ohio Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, until she retired in October 1991. 

Ms. Smith loved the Lord. She was baptized at the tender age of 12 at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Bluefield, West Virginia. After moving to Columbus, Ohio, Ms. Smith faithfully served Macedonia Baptist Church and was a Charter Member of Kingdom Power Baptist Church. She was passionate about tithing, music and prayer, and faithfully served with the Trustees, the Choir, the Mother Board and the Prayer Ministry. Additionally, Ms. Smith was known for her delicious homemade breads, cakes, and cobblers, which she lovingly prepared for many gatherings. 

Ms. Smith was known by many names, reflecting the love and care she provided and the great love and respect she engendered in so many–names like Mom, Ms. Smith, Grammie, Momma Nene, Aunt Nene, Ms. Juanita, Juanita, and Nita.

Ms. Smith is preceded in death by her parents and siblings Charles, James, George, Edward, Ernest, and LaVerne. She is survived by her sisters Imogene Ferguson and Staralee A. Adair, both of Columbus, Ohio. Other survivors include her daughter, Rev. Dr. Yvette W. Jackson (Patrick) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; granddaughter, McKenna S. Hensley of Durham, North Carolina; great-nieces Shameikia I. Smith and Bree-An Smith of Columbus, Ohio, and Dr. Nichelle M. Logan of Conroe, Texas; and a host of other relatives and friends. 

Ms. Smith loved her family and friends unconditionally. Ms. Smith cared for many people and their children at various points in her life. She also loved to laugh, tell stories and listen to stories. Ms. Smith had the gift of hospitality, as she fed nearly anyone who would come through the doors. Ms. Smith personified the Fruit of the Spirit, which was evident from the first time anyone met her. She will be sorely missed and tenderly remembered.