Lillie Smith

Lillie Ruth Smith, 92, passed away peacefully at her home in Birmingham, Alabama on October 15, 2021. She is survived by her husband of 74 years, Kelley Edgar Smith, and their four children; Phillip (Beth) Smith, Terry (Dottie) Smith, Darlene (Gary) Trammell, and David Smith. She adored and was adored by her grandchildren; Wesley Trammell, Sara (Kevin) Smith, Michael Smith, Tyler (Lauren) Smith and Austin Smith; and her great grandchildren; Emma, Trevor, Charlie, and Rose Smith. She is also survived by three siblings; Phillip Strength, Mary Alice Ward and Luna Baker. Lillie was preceded in death by her parents; Green Harrison Strength and Sarah Addie Strength and five brothers and sisters; Lacy Strength, Lora Cunningham, Johnny Strength, O’Neal Strength and Marion Strength. Lillie was born in Deatsville, Alabama and attended the Alabama School for the Deaf (ASD) in Talladega. She married her best friend and Hall of Fame football star Kelley Edgar Smith after finishing school. Lillie was known for her tenacity in supporting and fighting for the rights of deaf people. She was a member of the Alabama Association for the Deaf (AAD) and the Telephone Pioneers of America (TPA). She was a leader, teacher, mentor, wife, mother, MawMaw, friend, and fervent Christ follower. She was a member of her beloved Briarwood Presbyterian Church. A Memorial Service in her honor will be held at 1pm on Monday, October 25, 2021 at Briarwood Presbyterian Church Chapel with Dr. Harry Reeder officiating. The family will visit with friends prior to the service from 12-1pm at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Briarwood Presbyterian Church - Deaf Ministry