Charles Etta Smith

Charles Etta Smith, 77, of Benton Harbor departed this life on April 2, 2022.

A service celebrating her life will be Saturday, April 9, at the New Birth Apostolic Church, Benton Harbor. The visitation will begin at 10 a.m. followed by the service at 11 a.m. Visit www.robbinsbrothersfh.com to sign the guest book online.

Mother Smith was born in Memphis on Nov. 8, 1944, to Jamesetta and Charlie Smith Sr. She relocated with her family to West Memphis, Ark., where she graduated from Wonder High School. In 1967, she moved to Benton Harbor.

In September 1977, Charles Etta gave her life to the Lord. She was baptized in the name of Jesus and became a member of Pentecostal Power Church. She was filled with the Holy Ghost sometime later. She remained a faithful servant of the Lord.

As a licensed missionary, one of her ministries was visiting the sick and elderly in nursing homes and hospitals.

Through the years, she taught adult Sunday school, Bible Studies and was always there with a straightforward, encouraging word. Most of all, Mother Smith wanted us all to know that she loved the Lord!

Mother Charles' memory will be cherished by her sisters: Mildred (Willie) Friason, Dorothy (James) Griffiss, Mergie (James) Jackson and Brenda Beaty; brothers: Charlie Smith Jr., and James (Verdean) Smith; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Mother Charles was preceded in death by her parents: Jamesetta and Charlie Smith Sr.; sisters: Francis Craven, Bennie Cunningham and Vivian Smith-Moore.