Stephanie Lynn Smith transitioned from earth to glory on Friday, May 29, 2026. Born on May 10, 1967, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Stephanie was the beloved daughter of Lois Price and Louis Price, Jr. Raised in the vibrant city she loved, Stephanie graduated from G.W. Carver High School, Class of 1985, and continued her education at Dillard University in New Orleans and later John Tyler Community College, where she pursued nursing studies.

In 1994, Stephanie relocated to Richmond, Virginia, where she built a life centered on faith, family, service, and love. She dedicated more than 30 years of faithful employment to Ukrop's as a Culinary Preparer, where her strong work ethic and caring nature were evident to all who knew her. She also served as a caregiver with Home Instead, extending her compassion beyond her own family to countless individuals in need of comfort and support.

Stephanie's life was a reflection of servant-hearted love. Her faith journey led her through several church homes, including First New Zion Travelers Baptist Church in New Orleans under Pastor Jimmie and Shelia Smith, Mt. Olive Baptist Church under Pastor Charles Jackson, New Beginning Tabernacle Ministries under Bishop Cleveland and Harriet Hill, and ultimately Reach City Church under Bishop Johnathan and Kristi Whichard.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, Stephanie's greatest joy was her family. She shared a loving and enduring marriage of 40 years with her beloved husband, Pastor Jerome Smith. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, commitment, and service, creating a legacy that will continue for generations to come. She was a proud and devoted mother to Jamara Louis Smith and Ange'l Rayon Smith and treasured every moment spent with her beloved grandchildren, Janiyah Langhorne and Jamara Smith, Jr., who brought immeasurable joy to her life.

She is also survived by her loving mother, Lois Price; her siblings, Verinese Desilva, Mussette Desilva, Shantell (Brandon) Ware, Gilbert Desilva, and Arthur Desilva; and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness and love.

Stephanie was preceded in death by her father, Louis Price, Jr.

Those who knew Stephanie knew a woman of extraordinary grace and quiet strength. She possessed a nurturing spirit, a selfless heart, and a calming presence that could steady any storm. She was an encourager, a compassionate listener, and someone who offered wisdom without judgment. Her prayers, patience, class, humility, and unwavering love made others feel seen, valued, and cared for.

She enjoyed shopping, playing Pac-Man, and creating lasting memories with family and friends. The essence of Stephanie's life is beautifully captured in Proverbs 31. She exemplified the virtues of a woman who feared the Lord, served her family faithfully, and carried herself with dignity, wisdom, and strength. Her life was a testament to faith in action, and her impact will continue to be felt through the countless lives she touched.

Among the many memories her loved ones will cherish is her frequently spoken phrase, "Be quiet, Jerome," or "whatever" sayings that never failed to bring laughter, and a reminder of the loving relationship she shared with her husband.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing that Stephanie's legacy of faith, love, service, and compassion will continue through the lives she touched. Her beautiful example reminds us that true greatness is found not in recognition, but in how deeply we love, serve, and care for others.

Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Proverbs 31:28-29

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Friday, June 26, 2026, at Reach City Church, 885 Research Road, North Chesterfield, VA. The interment will be held 2:00 P.M., at Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6020157?fl=so&fe=fs