Barbara Anne Smith

Smith - Barbara Anne Smith, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on July 3, 1943, in Jacksonville, Florida, Barbara was a beacon of love and kindness to all who knew her. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard Greene and Ruth Mullis-Gamble; brothers, Leonard (Buddy) Greene and Richard (Ricky) Gamble; and sister, Lisa Gamble-Walker.

Barbara's years were marked by a deep commitment to education, both as a student and a teacher. She graduated from the University of North Florida with a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in education. Barbara dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds as a revered teacher at Highlands Middle School in Jacksonville, Florida. Her passion for teaching was recognized with numerous accolades, including the esteemed Teacher of the Year award. Barbara's influence extended far beyond the classroom, as she touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and parents.

A woman of unwavering faith, Barbara was a devout Christian who held her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the center of her life. Her faith guided her actions, and she lived by the principle of making everyone she met feel loved and valued. Barbara had a unique ability to make others feel seen and appreciated, embodying the spirit of the Maya Angelou quote she cherished: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

Barbara's love extended to her hobbies, where she found joy in cooking and crocheting. Her family and friends will forever remember the delicious meals she lovingly prepared and the handcrafted gifts she shared with them. She delighted in family vacations to the beach and the lake, where her warmth and laughter created lasting memories. Barbara Anne Smith will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband of 66 years, James Carlton "Carl" Smith, Jr., with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Together, they raised three wonderful sons, James (Connie) Carlton "Carl/Bubba" Smith, III, Randy (Debbie) Lee Smith, and Sean (Leanne) Scott Smith, Sr. Her legacy of love and compassion continues through her grandchildren, Matthew (Staci) Smith, Sean (Hiba) "Rocky" Smith, Jr., Jacob "Jake" Smith, Shena (Jonathon) Therien, Kerri (Andrew) Schuller, and Christian (Madeline) Schuller; and great-grandchildren, Madison Smith, Sadie Smith, Lawson Therien, and Weston Therien. She also leaves behind her sister, Gayle Nix; along with a large extended family that includes cousins, nephews, nieces, and countless friends who were touched by her generous spirit and loving heart. Barbara's family was her greatest joy, and her love for them was boundless.

The tribute above was prepared by Barbara's loving family.

A Graveside Service for Barbara will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery, 4535 North Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206. The family will receive friends on Friday, April 3, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Cedar Bay Funeral Home, 405 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218. As we gather to honor her memory, we carry with us the profound impact she made on our lives and the love she shared so freely. Barbara loved flowers and they can be sent to the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care and direction of CEDAR BAY FUNERAL HOME, 405 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, Florida, 32218. (904) 714-1110.