Renee B. Smith

Obituary For Renee B. Smith

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a beloved Friend of God, Renee B. Smith, who entered eternal rest on August 24, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on February 24, 1952, the daughter of Paul E. Rowe and Roberta Duncan Pierce, in Detroit, Michigan, Renee touched countless lives with her unwavering faith and spirit of service.

A graduate of Campbell Memorial High School, Renee furthered her studies at Youngstown State University in real estate. Renee processed and provided analytical data to ensure that the vulnerable children of our community were served until her retirement from the Mahoning County Children Board.

Renee’s deep love and faith for God was evident in her passionate engagement with the church community. She dedicated her life to serving God and encouraging others through her work at multiple ministries, including Open Door Church, Living Testimony Ministries, Metropolitan Baptist Church, Rising Star, Church of Hope, Gospel Temple, and Jesus Is the Way Ministries. Her role as church secretary at Gospel Temple in Campbell and Metropolitan Baptist further exemplified her commitment to the faith she cherished.

An extraordinary cook known for her delicious confectioner delights such as pound cakes and cheesecakes, Renee's hospitality was legendary. Her holiday feasts brought family and friends together, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever. She was a gifted Sunday school teacher and always had words of encouragement to share with those in need. Her wisdom and heart for service made her a pillar of strength for her family and community.

A devoted wife to Walter L. Smith, whom she married July 4, 1980, Renee was the matriarch of the family. Renee was the proud mother of Juanita (Tavon) DuBois, Christopher (Jasmine) Smith, Stacey Torres and stepdaughter Tracey Spencer. She is also survived by her cherished siblings; sister, Roslyn Stonework; brother, Kevin (Vera) Pierce; and stepbrother, Franklin (Mildred) Pierce. Her legacy will continue through her nine beloved grandchildren, ten great children, and godson Titus LeFlore, along with a host of relatives and friends. Each of these loved ones will carry her memory in their hearts, forever inspired by her example.

As her faith became sight, she entered eternity with a strong conviction. Renee was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather Hardy Pierce Sr.; brother Ralph Rowe; stepbrother Hardy Pierce Jr.; grandsons Quincy Little and Raymond Marrow. Renee B. Smith will be deeply missed but fondly remembered as a servant of God, loving mother, devoted wife, and a beacon of hope in the lives she touched.

In honor of Renee’s life and legacy, services will be held at the Metropolitan Baptist Church, 485 Redondo Road, on Friday August 28, 2026, with a public viewing at 10:00 AM which will precede the Christian Celebration of Life services at 11:00 AM with Pastor John Tate officiating and Pastor Gary Frost delivering the eulogy. After the committal ceremony, Renee will be laid to rest upon the serene meadows of Tod Homestead Cemetery, where her spirit will continue to inspire us as we carry on her legacy of love, faith, and encouragement.

For a caring farewell, at this time of intimate need and personal loss, the Renee B. Smith family elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown, OH 44511 330.782.8500

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