NEWS
In Memoriam: Maggie Louise Black Smith
Maggie Louise Black Smith
Maggie Louise Black Smith lived a life that illuminated the world around her — a life marked by courage, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the Lord. On July 25, 2026, at the age of 88, she completed her earthly journey, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and guide everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born on November 15, 1937, to Gus Black and Ernestine Alexander in Iredell County, Maggie and her sister Gussie grew up with a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and faith, despite moving often. This early foundation shaped her lifelong commitment to remain rooted in one place and raise a family of her own — a guiding thread through every chapter of her life.
Maggie’s early school years included Lyttle Grove School, Ada Jenkins School, and Torrence Lyttle, where she first discovered the joy of learning and the strength of community. Maggie was headed into the tenth grade when she met the love of her life, Herbert Smith. They married in 1954 and welcomed their first child, Darrie, later that same year. Their family continued to grow with the arrivals of Terry, Larry, and Melinda, each one adding new joy, purpose, and love to their lives in Davidson.
In the early eighties, Maggie worked at General Times making clock parts for vehicles, later serving as a nurse’s aide at Huntersville Hospital. Her compassion and determination led her to earn her certification to open an in‑home day care center, where she poured her heart into nurturing and teaching young children.
Maggie loved her Davidson community, giving generously of her time and talents to help it thrive. She served on numerous town boards, including Affordable Housing, Christian Aid Society, and Parks and Recreation, always advocating for the well‑being of her neighbors. Her most recent accolade came in November of 2025, when she received the G. Jackson Burney Community Service Award — a heartfelt recognition of her lifelong commitment to service, compassion, and the betterment of her community.
Family and friends surrounding Mrs. Maggie Smith following the G. Jackson Burney Award Ceremony in 2025. (News of Davidson photo)
Maggie was a faithful and devoted member of Reeves Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, serving her church family with grace, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Throughout her life, she held many roles, including former Financial Secretary and Steward Board member. In her later years, she continued her service on the Trustee Board, as Sunday School Superintendent, President of the Deaconess Board, and Parent Body President of the Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society. Her devotion and leadership were honored when she received the Heart for Overseas Missionary pin — a prestigious recognition of her deep love for mission work and her lifelong commitment to uplifting others.
Maggie was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Herbert Smith; her parents, Ernestine Alexander and Gus Black; her sister, Gussie Latta; and two of her children, Larry and Melinda Smith.
To continue Maggie’s legacy are her son, Darrie Smith, and her daughter, Terry Little; three grandchildren, Letha Smith, Keith Houston, and Porschea Smith; two great‑grandchildren, Khelsi Harris (Ben) and Remington Belk; and two great‑great‑grandchildren, Wynter and Ysaiah Harris. She is also lovingly remembered by her aunts, Ellen Wood (David) and Vonetta Ridge (Eddie); her cousin, Barbra Ann Alexander; her nieces and nephews, Pamela, Mark, Earthell, and Shane Latta; as well as a loving circle of great‑nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever cherish her memory.
Maggie also leaves behind special friends and extended family who brought joy, support, and companionship to her life, each holding a cherished place in her heart: Lela Johnson, Jan Blodgett, the Kuzmanovich Family, the Mundle Family, the Rindocks Family, and the Griffith Family.
Maggie reminded us that a meaningful life is not measured in years, but in impact — in the courage to grow, the generosity to give, and the love we leave behind. Her light continues forward in all of us.
Her wake will be held Friday, July 31 from 6 – 8:00 p.m. at the W.H. Bryant Funeral Home, 1020 Briarhill Road, Mooresville, N.C. 28115.
The service honoring her Life of Service will be held Saturday, August 1 at 11:00 a.m. at Reeves Temple A.M.E. Zion Church. The church is located at 213 Watson Street in Davidson.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to either Reeves Temple A.M.E. Zion Church or Davidson Cornelius Child Development Center.