Annette G. Smith was born in Clinton, South Carolina to the late Lucille Bell and the late David Rosser. She moved to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 1940, beginning a journey that would be marked by dedication, service and adventure.

In 1952, Annette began her career at Olmstead Air Force Base in Middletown, Pennsylvania. Eleven years later in 1963, she traveled abroad with her husband during his military career, their first duty station being Toul-Rosières Air Force Base in France. In 1967, they relocated to Otis Air Force Base in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where Annette continued her federal career as a Supervisor in the IBM section.

Returning to Harrisburg in 1973, Annette resumed her service at the former New Cumberland Army Depot with the United States Army Security Affairs Command (USASAC). She retired in 1988 after 34 years of distinguished federal service.

Annette often reflected on her years of travel as some of the happiest times of her life. She cherished living in Hawaii, her three years in France and Germany and the eight years she spent in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Annette was baptized at Hebron Baptist Church in Clinton, South Carolina. In 1940, she became a member of Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. In later years, she faithfully served as a Missionary at Baptist Fellowship Church, where her devotion and commitment to her faith were evident to all who knew her.

Her favorite scripture was Psalm 12:1 and she found comfort in the hymn Blessed Assurance. Among the songs that uplifted her spirit were, I Won’t Complain and It Is Well, each reflecting the strength and peace she carried throughout her life.

Annette held numerous distinguished positions throughout her life of service. She was a Past Worthy Matron of Esther Chapter No. 1, Order of Eastern Star, Prince Hall Affiliation. She also served as Past Illustrious Commandress of Daughter of Isis Himyar Court No. 97, Past Royal Lady of the Circle of Perfection, and Perfect Matron of Princess Cyrene Court No. 14. In addition, Annette contributed her talents as Arts & Crafts Chairperson for Deborah Grand Chapter and served faithfully as Trustee for the 5th Order of Eastern Star District.

Annette was a proud member of the Keystone Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association for more than 25 years. She dedicated herself to community service, working annually on fundraising projects for the Harrisburg Diabetes Association. She also gave twelve years of service at the Susquehanna Township voting polls, ensuring her community’s voice was heard.

Annette had a passion for cooking and a love for collecting cookbooks. She was especially known for her corn casserole, potato salad, and her famous chicken and dumplings—dishes that brought joy to all who tasted them.

A woman of elegance, Annette delighted in wearing beautiful dresses, complemented by stunning hats and jewelry. She found joy in watching her favorite shows—Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and especially Judge Judy—and cherished traveling, shopping, and playing cards with her friends.

Her garden was a source of pride, as she carefully tended to each flower and knew them all by name. She enjoyed lunch outings and never missed her cherished evening cocktail.

Beyond her personal joys, Annette devoted herself to serving others. She reached out to members of her community in need, driving senior citizens to doctor appointments, assisting with grocery shopping, and preparing meals for families facing hardship. She often said, “If I can help somebody, then my living would not be in vain.”

Each night, after her prayers, she ended with a simple but profound expression of gratitude: “Thank You Lord for it all.”

Annette G. Smith entered into eternal rest on November 19, 2025, just fourteen days before her ninety-ninth birthday.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Gladys Dillard and Beatrice Horne and her twin sons, Frank Swanson and Fred Swanson.

Annette’s legacy lives on through her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her daughter-in-law, Nanette Swanson and her devoted friend and caregiver, Beverly Bowman Thomas. She is also remembered with love by her nephew, Marion Chat Sloane; her uncle, Raymond Pettis; her dear friend, Julio Enos and a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Her life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025 in the Sanctuary of Baptist Fellowship, 3985 N. 2nd Street Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.