Alfreda Oscorrine Bates-Smith

Alfreda O. Bates-Smith, affectionately known as “Freda,” peacefully transitioned on January 24, 2026, at her home in Ohio, surrounded by her loving family.

Alfreda was a dedicated and hardworking woman who took pride in serving others. She worked faithfully as a CNA at The Jewish Center before later working with a cleaning company serving Mt. Carmel East and West. She eventually became an employee of The American Red Cross, where she worked joyfully until retirement. During her time there, she built lifelong friendships and passionately encouraged others to donate blood, always finding ways to serve and uplift her community.

After retirement, Alfreda embraced her love for travel and adventure. She eventually settled in Florida, where she created a peaceful and fulfilling life. She attended church faithfully and often hosted Bible study in her home, opening her doors and her heart to others. She enjoyed shopping at flea markets and thrift stores, always finding hidden treasures. No matter where she lived, she made it a point to return to Ohio for holidays and special occasions making her rounds to visit loved ones and promising she would be back soon.

Alfreda was truly a free spirit. She loved to dance, laugh, and gather with family and friends. To know her was to love her. She was the trusted confidant for so many; guarding secrets without judgment and offering unconditional support. She had a remarkable way of taking people in, no matter their situation. And if she couldn’t help you herself, she would find someone who could.

She was everyone’s favorite; the life of the party and the heart of every gathering.

Alfreda was preceded in death by her devoted parents, Alfred Holt and Marie Bates-Ferreira; her brothers Willie Casey and Robert Anderson; and her brother-in-law Don Brown.

She leaves to cherish her beautiful memory her loving sister, Samuella Brown; her daughters, Sunserraye (Dawan) Jackson and Billie Bates; and her honorary daughter, April Shackelford. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Ivana Woods-Murphy, Dawan Jr., Dante Jackson, Devon Bates-Smith, Tyler (Imani) Phillips, Miyanna (Richard) Cooper, Dazshu’Von (Elaysia) Bates, Elijah Bates, and honorary grandsons Matthew (Olivia) Jones and Christopher Jones. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Zion and Armani Bates-Smith, and Ryleigh Cooper. Alfreda also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever treasure her love and legacy.

Though her footsteps are no longer heard in the room, her rhythm remains in our hearts. Though her laughter no longer fills the air, its echo lingers in every memory we share. She was a shelter in the storm, a keeper of secrets, a giver of grace, and a light that never dimmed for anyone who needed her warmth. She danced through life freely, loved without condition, and left fingerprints of kindness on every soul she touched.

So we will not say goodbye—we will say “so long for now”. Thank you for the love. Thank you for the laughter. Thank you for the safe place you created for so many.

Rest peacefully, Freda. Your love lives on in us.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The family of Alfreda O. Bates-Smith wishes to express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to each of you for the many acts of love and kindness shown to us during this time of bereavement. Every prayer lifted, every call made, every visit shared, every comforting word spoken, and every expression of sympathy has strengthened us more than words can fully convey.

Your presence, support, and outpouring of love have been a source of great comfort as we celebrate Alfreda’s beautiful life and legacy. We are deeply grateful for the compassion extended to our family.

We offer special thanks to VITAS Hospice Care for their gentle and attentive care, and to Shaw-Davis Funeral Homes for their professionalism, guidance, and compassionate service during this time. We would also like to think The City of Zion Church and Pastor Dale D. Tucker of Triedstone Baptist Church.

May God richly bless each of you for the kindness you have shown.