Maxine Smith

Maxine T. Smith, who peacefully entered eternal rest on June 11, 2026, and went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Born on October 28, 1937, in King George, Virginia, Maxine was the beloved daughter of the late George and Eliza Turner. As one of seven children, she was raised in a loving family and learned early the values of faith, hard work, and perseverance. Maxine attended Ralph Bunche High School in King George, Virginia, and later married Preston Smith Sr. Their union was blessed with one son, Preston Smith Jr., who brought joy to her life. Maxine’s love for her family was evident in the care, wisdom, and support she generously shared with those she loved.

At an early age, Maxine accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and was baptized at Good Hope Baptist Church. Her walk with Christ was not merely professed—it was demonstrated through a lifetime of faithful service. She served diligently as a Nurse, Usher, Trustee and Deacon always willing to lend her hands wherever God called her.  After many years of faithful service at Good Hope Baptist Church, Deaconess Maxine united with First Church Ambar under the leadership of Apostle William T. Frye, where she continued to serve as a Deaconess and Mother of the Church. She served faithfully for many years until declining health limited her ability to serve in her official capacity.

Maxine’s love for God was the cornerstone of her life. She believed deeply in the power of prayer and faithfully attended Bible study, worship services, and Bible college, where she earned her associate degree.  Maxine’s commitment to spiritual growth and discipleship was evident to all who knew her. She was especially dedicated to midnight prayer and rarely missed an opportunity to join the prayer line. No matter the hour, she was determined to be present, even if it meant calling Robert and asking him to connect her to the prayer line. She shared her enthusiasm with others, often encouraging them to experience the blessing of the prayer line for themselves. Whether family, friend, or stranger, those who encountered Maxine often left feeling uplifted by her faith and sincerity. Her steadfast faith, unwavering devotion, and love for the Lord were an inspiration to family, friends, and fellow believers alike.

Professionally, Maxine was employed by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, where she served faithfully for many years. Known for her dependability and strong work ethic, she earned the respect of colleagues and carried herself with the same integrity that defined every aspect of her life.

Maxine found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved crabbing and fishing and could captivate any audience with stories of her adventures on the water, often accompanied by her radiant smile and infectious laughter. Saturdays were often reserved for exploring yard sales and thrift stores, a pastime she thoroughly enjoyed. Yet even amid her hobbies and interests, she never allowed anything to take precedence over her relationship with God. Whether attending Bible study, participating in church activities, or joining prayer gatherings, she consistently placed the Lord first in her life.

Above all else, Maxine cherished her family. She delighted in spending time with her son, grandchildren, and extended family. Maxine was known for speaking her mind with honesty and conviction. She believed in telling the truth with clarity, and no one ever had to wonder where they stood with her. Those who knew her best appreciated her candor and wisdom.

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, George and Eliza Turner; her husband Preston Smith Sr.; her sisters, Mary Lena Cobb, Hazel Hopewell, and Barbara DeJesus and her brother, James Turner.

Though she has exchanged earth for glory, her legacy of faith, love, and devotion will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she leaves behind.  She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Preston Smith Jr. of Louisiana; sisters, Jean Wilkerson of Washington, D.C., Laverne Turner of Colonial Beach, Virginia, and Betty Frye of King George, Virginia; ten sisters-in-law: Mildred Peyton of Colonial Beach, Virginia, Helen Johnson of Washington, D.C., Shirley Tate of Washington, D.C., Priscilla Smith of Colonial Beach, Virginia, Della Smith of Colonial Beach, Virginia, Regina Smith of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Phyllis Johnson of Florida, Odessa Jolly of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Dorita Byrd of King George, Virginia, and Clarnice Smith of Fredericksburg, Virginia; one brother-in-law, Henry Smith (Valencia) of Maryland; four grandchildren: Brian Sorrell, Demetrius Smith, Shantae Collins-Hayes (Eric), and Brianna Smith; seven great-grandchildren, Mikeesha Henderson, Khari Jefferson, Treshon Sorrell, Mariyah Bland, Reagan Bland, Samira Scriver, and Brielle Collins; one great-great-grandchild, Laila Mapp; one special niece, Linda Pratt; one special nephew, Robert Turner; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, church family members, and dear friends.

While we mourn her earthly departure, we rejoice in knowing that she has received her heavenly reward and now rests in the presence of the Lord she faithfully served. Her life was a testament to God’s grace, and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.

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