Birdie Smith Is Recognized for Service in Community

Springfield Missionary Baptist Church honored Mrs. Birdie L. Smith, 92, Sunday, March 4, with an Honor and Appreciation Program for her life of “Love, Benevolence, and Service.”

Mrs. Smith’s life began in Woodville, Ala. on November 18, 1919 with herself and five siblings born to the late Robert and Jeannie E. Williams.

She graduated from high school in Huntsville, Ala., and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Tennessee State University. She also attended Fort Valley State College.

She joined Shiloh Baptist Church as a child in Alabama, and while in Tennessee, she joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church rendering herself in the service of the Lord, said an announcement from the program.

She later made her home in Monticello, in 1948, and joined Springfield Baptist Church and was known to reference her favorite scripture, John 14:1-3.

Mrs. Smith married Eddie Smith on January 8, 1954. She worked for the Jasper County School system for 31 years, impacting the lives of many children.

She demonstrated through experience and was known to be firm, but gentle and loving through her instruction and direction. She continued working with students to help them, even in her retirement.

For most of her life, Mrs. Smith has been active in Springfield, Jasper County and the Monticello community. She has reached out to those in need through canned goods donations. She has worked with Care Corps and the Octoberblitz, and was on the Oconee Hospital board.

She has been a Sunday school and vacation Bible school teacher, along with working as a clerk in the church until 1990. She was also the President of the Senior Missionaries for over 20 years.

The celebration for Mrs. Smith included music, scripture, prayer, a poem, and personal tributes.