Sheila R. Smith

6/30/1951-6/4/2020

Sheila Rhoda Smith fell asleep in death on Thursday June 4, 2020 surrounded by her family. She was born in Paterson N.J. on June 30, 1951 to Mrs. Hildred Young (Veal) and Palmer C. Young Sr. She was the oldest of six children in a tight family structure with her 3 sister Olive McCorkle (deceased), Ella Chambers, Jewel Thomas and 2 brothers Palmer C. Young Jr. and Sidney Young.

Sheila graduated from John F. Kennedy High School at the age of 16. She then went to school for dental assistant before joining the U.S. Army. While in the Army she continued her schooling achieving degrees from Baylor University and University of Maryland Global Campus. She achieved the rank of Staff Sargent (E-6) and retired after 20 years honorably.

Sheila was married to Ramon F. Smith Sr. in 1973 and they had their only son Ramon F Smith Jr, in 1976. She was predeceased in 1985 when her husband died. She proudly and successfully raised her son Ramon and her great-niece Syrene.

During the early 1980s she was introduced to Jehovah’s Witnesses while residing in Staten Island N.Y. She studied intently and dedicated her life to Jehovah and was baptized. She enjoyed her life sharing her spiritual teachings with her family and neighbors.  She has left her enduring spirit with her siblings, son, great niece, and grandchildren.

Sheila is survived by her son Ramon Smith of Salisbury, MD and niece Syrene Holmes of Paterson NJ. Her grandchildren Ramon Smith Jr., James Smith, and Jaylen Smith. Also her siblings Palmer Young, Ella Chambers, Sidney Young, and Jewel Thomas. She will be leaving behind a host of friends and family as well as her spiritual family.