Ollie Mae Smith

Born to Huley Senior and Ida Mae Cooper, Ollie Mae’s earthly journey started on January 29, 1935 in Jackson, Mississippi and rested In West Hills, California on September 3rd, 2023 at 11:56 p.m.. Her life’s journey took her from Gallilee Hill, in Jackson, Miss., to Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, and now at rest in Jesus Christ our Lord. She most recently was a member and served at her local community Church - Canoga Presbyterian Church in Canoga Park, but she was faithful and active over her entire life, as a  member of Friendship Baptist in Jackson, Miss. and Avalon Zion, Greater Bethany and West Angeles C.O.G.I.C., all in Los Angeles, California.

Survived by her only child Carol Edwards; three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews, as well as many many loved ones and friends who she loved and cherished.

She was loved, treasured and adored by many across the globe. Her name “Ollie Mae Smith” and presence will be forever remembered. Many touched her life and she touched many in her lifetime, from her career at LA Unified School District. She was loved by a lot of people. She had friendships all over the country, from her Elementary school teacher’s daughter to her second grade classmate. She left an impression on everyone. From the kids to their parents at 75th Street School and 92nd Children Center, to the cherished co-workers whom she embraced as extended family. She made wonderful forever-friends and connections throughout her life, through her card and gospel tract ministry.  Up until her last breath she left an impression from the nurses and caregivers who recently cared for her, to the doctors and their office staff.  Her light shined where ever she was.  She will be missed. Thank you all! 

Ollie Mae had a beautiful soul, a large heart, and a radiant spirit, and she was very outgoing and loving to everyone she came across.  She loved to send personalize greeting cards and minister the Gospel of Jesus through her gospel tracts. Ollie loved receiving and reading greeting cards, as well as catching up with family and friends on the phone and fellowshipping over good food and her memory to recall important dates and events was a storehouse.  She valued and loved life, family and friends and was loved and honored by the people in her life and she honored and loved everyone while she lived.

With that, Ollie Mae expressed her last wishes were to be celebrated in life and in spirit.  Although, she did not wish to have traditional services, we invite you to join us in celebrating our Beloved Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Great-Great Grandmother, Godmother, sister, sister-in-law, auntie, cousin, extended family, adopted family, faithful friend and colleague, and Her life by browsing some of the memories and highlights of her life in the photo gallery below. Feel free to leave your personal message in the guestbook below.

One of her favorite songs was "This little light of Mine". May her light continue to shine and her radiant smile and infectious laugh be remembered. To God be the glory, forever and ever.

“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:6-7

“I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better indeed.” —Philippians 1:23