Rawanda Jackson Smith was born March 26, 1952, in Norfolk, VA to the late Alvin and Margret Jackson. Raised in her early childhood by her stepfather, James Alston, and mother Reverend Margret B. Alston. On July 10th, 2023, she was called to her heavenly reward. The spirit of Rawanda Smith took flight back to the God who gave it. At an early age, Rawanda confessed a hope in Jesus Christ. Accepting the Lord into her life, always uniting with a body of Christian believers. She is a current member of Harvest Time Church, Huntsville, Alabama.
Rawanda, a veteran who served in the United States Army, completed a tour in North Dakota, two tours in Germany, Fort Hood, Texas, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Redstone Arsenal. She was later employed with the Federal Government as an Instructor teaching Ammunition Logistics, storage and inspection. She later went on to fulfill her passion for caring for others, becoming a certified CNA. Rawanda assisted patients and family members in need of care and support. She joined in holy matrimony to William Smith on January 3rd, 1978. They reared 4 children together. She was the epitome of a gracious, kind and sacrificial wife and mother.
She is preceded in death by her mother, stepfather, father and brother. Rawanda leaves to mourn, her husband William Smith; one daughter April Jackson of Norfolk VA; three sons; Kevin Jackson (Vicky) of Madison, AL, Patrick Jackson (Miranda) of Jackson, TN, and William Smith Jr. (LaToya) of Huntsville, AL. Brother Wayne Jackson (Mary) of Chesapeake, VA; Sister Eileen Todd of Columbus, GA. 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren amongst a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.
Funeral service will be 12:00 noon, Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at the Harvest Time Church (2520 Winchester Road NW Harvest, AL 35810) with Apostle Dr. Edmond James officiating. Entombment will be in the Valhalla Memory Gardens. Mrs. Smith will lie in repose one hour prior to funeral time.
The Smith family will receive guests from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at the Royal Chapel of Memories.
Public viewing will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 18, 2023, and 8:30 until 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at the Royal Funeral Home.
