Barbara A. Smith

Barbara A. Smith, born on August 23, 1947, peacefully transitioned from this life to her heavenly home on October 14, 2025, at Portsmouth Health and Rehabilitation Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. She was 78 years old.

Born in Smithfield, Virginia, to the late Gracie L. Diggs and Johnnie Scott, Barbara was raised in Suffolk, Virginia, where she developed her strong will, loving heart, and vibrant personality that would carry her through life.

Barbara was known for her outspoken nature and steadfast spirit. She had a way of lighting up every room she entered—her honesty, strength, and compassion left a lasting imprint on all who knew her. Family was at the center of her world, and her love was both fierce and unwavering. Whether through a word of encouragement, a heartfelt laugh, or her straightforward wisdom, Barbara touched lives in ways that will never be forgotten.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Smitty of Suffolk, Virginia.

Cherishing her beautiful memory are her loving children, Cedrick Diggs, Anita Newby, and Carl “Bumsey” Silver; grandchildren, Frederica Newby, Tyrone Diggs, Cedrick Diggs, Jerome, and Daquan Diggs; along with a host of great-grandchildren, extended family, and devoted friends who will forever carry her love in their hearts.

Barbara’s legacy of strength, love, and truth will continue to live on through those who were blessed to know her. Though she may be gone from our sight, she will never be gone from our hearts.