Johnnie Mae Smith

Johnnie Mae Smith, a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend transitioned to be with the Lord on January 14, 2024. Johnnie was born on September 3, 1954, in Johnston, South Carolina. She was adopted by John and Louise Walker making her their 9th child and only girl - (two brothers names unknown), John Lee (deceased), Joseph (deceased), Artis (deceased), Ferris (deceased), Roosevelt (deceased), and Mack (deceased). She was later reunited with her biological brothers and sister - William (deceased), Lillie Mae Smith, and Jimmy Collins.

At an early age, she moved to Washington, D.C. and attended D.C. Public Schools. Shortly after graduating from Eastern Senior High School, she was joined in marriage to her high school sweetheart Richard Smith, Sr. (deceased) in 1977. Their union produced four children. She then went on to graduate from Prince George’s Community College receiving an Associate of Arts degree. She was later wed again to Donnell Leake.

“Johnnie Mae” as she was affectionately called by those who loved her, thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by friends and family. Her annual cookouts were the highlight of the year and go as far back as the 80’s. She loved cooking and was very good at it. If you were lucky enough to taste her potato salad, your tastebuds were blessed. She even a had green thumb for a period as she enjoyed gardening. She also, had a passion for caregiving. Working as a Registered Nurse for over 40 years primarily in rehabilitation facilities, it was not uncommon for her to go into her pocket and provide residents with clothing items, a meal from a local restaurant, or to add some extra flare to the facility’s themed recreation activities. If she was not at work or making a comfort meal for her family, she was watching her favorite TV network, Lifetime! When it came to her children, she was the true definition of “Johnnie On The Spot”. If they were sick, she was there. If they needed assistance, she was there. If they were hungry there was always plenty at Ma’s house. Johnnie Mae enjoyed hand dancing, beating her kids at the card game 500, and she was pretty good at crocheting. Christmas was her favorite holiday as she delighted in going overboard with presents for her family. In her later years, she spent a lot of time bonding with her grandchildren.

Johnnie Mae is survived by her four children Richard Smith Jr., Kimberly Jamila Smith, Ryan Kelly Smith, and Michael Akeem Smith; daughter in law Jeanmarie Smith; eight grandchildren Jahrell, Masyn, Julianna, Julien, Cortez, Sariah, Santrice, and A’mir, and a host of friends and family who love her.