In loving memory of

Fernella O Smith
August 14, 1928 - November 5, 2023

Fernella O Smith

Newport, RI -Fernella O Smith, 95, of Newport, Rhode Island.

We are sad to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Fernella Henry-Smith. Our mother passed away surrounded by her loving family on Sunday November 5, 2023.
Our mother was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She loved her family immensely.

She is survived by six of her eight children; Gaston, Tambuora, Elaine, Esther, Ellise and Dale. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and her sister Elfreida Daniel. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and godchildren.

Her Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday November 11, 2023, at 11:30 am at First Prebyterian Church 6 Everett Street in Newport. The repass will follow immediately after in the church reception hall.
Burial will be private.

Tributes

Linda Harrison wrote on Nov 20, 2023:

"Dear,Elaine,Elise,Ester and Dale. Today is Nov.20, 2023 and i just heard of Miss Fernella's passing. I am so sorry for your losss. She was the very Best Christian friend in this world. We were all very very blessed to have known her on this earth.A very great individual, (lady). Sending my love to all her family."

Gabriel Christian wrote on Nov 11, 2023:

"On behalf of the Christian family we extend our sincere condolences on tbe passing of Fernella Smith, mother of our dear friend Ellise Vigilant, mother in law of our brother Reginald Vigilant and grandmother of Shani. May our prayers of comfort keep the Smith family in good stead as we ask that the soul of your beloved rest in peace. Respectfully, Joan, Samora, Makonnen and Gabriel Christian "

Melvin wrote on Nov 9, 2023:

"My dear friend RIP and my deepest sympathy to the family for their lost. "

Catherine Baham wrote on Nov 9, 2023:

"Elaine and Family, sorry to hear of your Mom passing. May you seek comfort in the Lord at this time. Cathy (Smith) Baham "

Kim Holder wrote on Nov 9, 2023:

"Elaine, my condolences goes out to you and your family. Keeping your family in prayers."

Beverly Seeley wrote on Nov 9, 2023:

"I am so sorry for your loss. May God help you through this sad time."

Sarah Glen wrote on Nov 9, 2023:

"My sincere condolences to the family. I loved Fernella a lot. She befriended me at a very low point in my life about 22 years ago after having recently lost my own mother and job at that time, it meant a lot to me. We spent a lot of time together and on the phone talking including in the middle of the night. Unfortunately, I moved away in 2014 and the phone calls dwindled due to many reasons. I never stopped thinking and loving her. My daughter lost her grandfather ( my ex -father -in law)Nov 7 , 2023 who was 90. It is a a very sad time. He is being buried At 11 on the same day as Fernella. Living miles apart now, I will be grieving them both at this time but at a distance from you. I do cherish my memories of your mother, my friend. Thank you for sharing her with me for so long. She was like a mother to me. Sarah S. Glen"

sylvia lewis wrote on Nov 8, 2023:

"Elaine and Family, sending Prayers of comfort your mom was a beautiful person with a warm smile, my she RIP Sylvia Lewis and Family"