Willie Mae Smith

Willie Mae Smith, who preferred to be called Mae, a beacon of warmth, love, and laughter, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 12, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on May 23, 1938, in the quaint town of Smithfield, North Carolina, Mae was the cherished daughter of Willis Samuel Smith and Julia Ellen McClamb Smith. Her journey through life was marked by her unyielding faith, her deep commitment to family, her remarkable service to others, and heartfelt connections with friends. Mae grew up in Smithfield, where she attended Johnston County Training School. Her education laid the foundation for a life filled with dedication and service. She found her way to the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York, living akin to her brother and his in-laws while working for the Domino Sugar Refinery Plant. Mae's spirit later led her to Baltimore and later to Washington, D.C., where she pursued a career as a bank teller. Her professional path blossomed in hospitality, dedicating over two decades of service to the Sheraton Hotel in Crystal City, Arlington, Virginia; and the Washington Court Hotel in Washington, D.C. A devoted member of New Dawn Baptist Church for over 15 years, Willie Mae's faith was an integral part of her life. She found joy in singing with the church's Choir and was a steadfast presence in various community endeavors. Her enthusiasm for supporting her daughter and grandchildren in their activities and personal and professional endeavors reflected her nurturing spirit. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: watching movies, listening to Blues, Soul, R&B, and Gospel songs, for which "Jesus is Love" by the Commodores was a personal favorite, watching and enjoying football, who became a Washington fan after earlier years supporting Buffalo, taking walks at the Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center, and partaking in family gatherings and outdoor events. Mae's laughter was infectious, her smile radiant, and her heart open to all. Her kindness and love were a testament to her belief in the goodness of others, a quality that endeared her to everyone she met. Her presence was a source of comfort and joy, offering a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on whenever needed. She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Angela Paulette Pippen Frazier, her "babies", sisters Bobbie and Tracy Pippen and their respective children; her grandchildren, Marie Andrea Frazier and Mark Anthony Frazier; and her great-grandson, Roman Anthony Frazier. Her brother, Clinton Earl Royal, many nieces, nephews, cousins, former work colleagues, a wide circle of dear friends, and cherished church members, will forever hold her memory close. Willie Mae was predeceased by her beloved parents and her sister, Charlotte Madgeline McClamb Jones, with whom she now shares eternal peace. She is remembered for her warmth, kindness, and love to others. May she be remembered by her favorite Bible passage John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him, shall not perish but have eternal Life." She believed and may God welcome his daughter home. Celebration of Willie Mae's Life will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at New Dawn Baptist Church, located at 5909 Riggs Rd., Chillum, MD 20783. Friends and family of Willie Mae Smith are welcomed to share memories and photos of and with her during the Celebration of Life Reception immediately following the funeral service.