Connie Embry

Connie Embry was born on June 11, 1961, in Sylacauga, Alabama, to the cherished union of David Smith, Sr. and Ethel Lee Thomas Smith. Her life, a tapestry woven with faith, love, and kindness, touched the lives of all who knew her and her journey on this earth has left an indelible mark on the lives of those who were blessed to have known her.
Connie's unwavering faith in God was the foundation of her life. She united with the Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church at a young age, where she faithfully served her congregation with a devout spirit, contributing her talents to the kitchen committee and sharing her melodious voice as a member of the choir. A proud graduate of Sylacauga High School, Class of 1980, she devoted herself to her community as a talented beautician, cake designer, and baker. Connie's culinary creations-especially her lovingly crafted cakes for birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings-were a joyful testament to her nurturing nature. In her early years, she worked as a seamstress for Russell Mills, and later, she served as a skilled child nutritionist in the cafeteria at B.B. Comer Memorial High School, where her dedication and compassion for children shone brightly until her retirement.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Connie was a radiant beacon of joy and warmth. Her infectious smile and enthusiastic spirit illuminated the lives of family and friends alike. Known for her love of dancing and celebration, she found immense joy in traveling with her girl's group and entertaining those she held dear. Connie shared a bond unlike any other with her twin brother, Ronnie, creating a lifelong friendship filled with laughter and support.
As a devoted mother, Connie cherished her role as the loving matriarch of her family. Her heart was especially full for her precious "Nanny Babies," Zakorien and Ziyah, relishing in the joy they brought her and with whom she created countless joyful memories that will forever echo in their hearts.
Connie Embry, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, was peacefully called to her eternal home at the age of 63 on Friday evening, May 30, 2025 while under the compassionate care of Grandview Medical Center in Birmingham, Alabama with her beloved family at her side. Connie is now reunited with her parents, David Smith, Sr. and Ethel Lee Smith, husband, Ronnie Embry, two brothers, Billy Smith and David Smith, Jr.; and three sisters, Barbara Duffey, Frances Garrett, and Cathy Smith.
Connie leaves a legacy of love and fun memories to forever be cherished by her loving and devoted daughters, Christina Heard, Kacey (Kortney Chambliss) Heard, and Tieuanekia Dates; two grandchildren, Zakorien Chambliss and Ziyah Chambliss; six bonus grandchildren, Jaylen Dates, Jordan Dates, Jamia Averett, and Jhazline Dates, Fre'draun McGregor and Zakiya McGinnis; two bonus great-grandchildren, J'Mirian Russ and J'Ream Russ; three brothers, Michael (Carla Oglesby) Smith, Leon (Pamela Stamps) Smith, and Ronnie (Dinese) Smith; brother-in-law, Pastor Raymond Garrett; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
May we all find comfort in the memories shared and the love that Connie brought into our lives. She will forever be remembered for her kind heart and gentle spirit, leaving an unforgettable mark on all who knew her. Connie Embry's memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the honor of knowing her. Let us gather to celebrate a life well-lived, a love deeply felt, and a spirit that will forever shine brightly in our hearts. Rest in eternal peace our dearly beloved, Connie Embry.