In Loving Memory of Pastor Dr. Elizabeth Ann Smith

Elizabeth Ann Smith was born on July 26, 1960,in Beula, Mississippi, to the late Bertha Lee Smith. She was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Elizabeth Murphy, whose guidance and faith helped shape the incredible woman she would become.

Elizabeth was preceded in death by her great-grandmother, Alberta Smith; her beloved grandmother, Elizabeth Murphy; her cherished siblings, James “Duck” Smith, Frederick “Ricky” Smith (Carolyn Smith), and Dorothy Long; and her beautiful granddaughter, Jo’Vanni Smith. Though she has departed this life, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

As a teenager, Elizabeth moved to Chicago, Illinois, where she attended Calumet High School. After graduating, she pursued her passion for beauty and style at Truman College, where she studied cosmetology. She went on to work as a beauty consultant at Macy’s, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. Elizabeth posthumously received her honorary Doctorate degree in Christian Leadership from Juliana King University, recognizing her 25 years of dedicated service to ministry.

But Elizabeth’s true calling was ministry. She was ordained as an Evangelist at New St. Peter’s Deliverance Center under the leadership of Apostle Walter E. Crockran. As she continued to grow in her faith and service, she was later ordained and licensed as a Pastor with full rights and privileges under the State of Illinois. Her devotion to God and her calling led her to serve both inside and outside the church, touching countless lives through her compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

Elizabeth was more than a leader—she was a guiding light. She was a counselor, mentor, and friend to many, always offering words of encouragement, a listening ear, and a heart full of love. She never met a stranger who wasn’t inspired by her presence. Her quick wit, boundless wisdom, and deep faith made her a source of strength and comfort to those around her.

Above all, her greatest joy was her family. She was devoted to creating strong bonds through love, laughter, and faith. Her family gatherings were filled with delicious home-cooked meals, joyful storytelling, and her signature Christian humor—moments that will be cherished forever.

Elizabeth “Nuddy” Smith leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service, carried on by her devoted children: Cameka Smith, Shamonaca Smith (Jermaine Davis), and Eugene Smith; her beloved grandchildren: Korell, Korvonte, Kymora, Kyra Davis, and Nyla McDonald; her four loving sisters: Velma Wilkins, Thelma Taylor (Willie Taylor), Carmella Smith, and Katie Smith; her life partner, Eugene Butler; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and dear friends.

Her light, wisdom, and unwavering faith will forever shine in the hearts of those she touched. Though she may be gone from our sight, her legacy of hope, love, and faith will continue to inspire generations to come.

Pastor Dr. Elizabeth’s Smith Final Sermon

Pastor Dr. Elizabeth Smith's unwavering devotion to her ministry and community was evident even in her last days. Hear her heartfelt final sermon, given from her hospital bed via Facebook, just before she went home to be with the Lord. Be inspired by her message.

How do I stay hopeful in today's world?

  • But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint". Isaiah 40:31
  • But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him". Jeremiah 17:7
  • To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory". Colossians 1:27
  • May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit". Romans 15:13
  • And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation". Romans 5:3-5
  • And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love" 1 Corinthians 13:13