Gertrude Smith, age 78 of Crossett, passed away Friday, December 1, 2017 in Cornerstone Hospital in West Monroe, LA. She was a retired elementary school teacher and a member of Gates Chapel A.M.E. Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Governor and Bernice Brandon-Washington; one sister, Mary Lilian Washington and one brother, George Washington. Mrs. Smith served as a steward, trustee and missionary at the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  She was a member of the Order of Eastern Stars Silver Star Chapter #306 and president of the Women's Progressive Club, chairperson for the Willie Mae Woods Scholarship Club and chairperson for World Day Prayer.  On September 20, 2016 the mayor declared that day to be Gertrude Smith Day.  Mrs. Smith was an inspiration to all who knew her and always willing to give a helping hand to all who were in need.  She will be greatly missed by her church family and friends.

She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Joe Smith; two daughters, Demeto Jo Holt (Cedrick) of Crossett and Cheryl Taylor of Mesquite, TX; an adopted son, Rev. Darren Buffington (Josephine) of Monticello; one brother, Cleo Bernell Washington (Shirley) of Kansas City, MO; seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.  Viewing is from 1:00-6:00PM at Cromwell Funeral Home, Inc.

Services are Saturday, December 9, 2017 at 2:30PM at Gates Chapel A.M.E. Methodist Church with Rev. Harriel White officiating. Burial will be in Ryles Cemetery in the White Station Community.  Pallbearers are Walter Hendrix, Curtis Boston, Jr., Mario Brown, Edward 'Chuck' Brown, Keith Martin, Maurice Williams, Rahmel King and William Willis.  Honorary pallbearers will be T.W. Daniels, High School Class of 1957, The Women's Progressive Club and The Order of Eastern Stars Silver Star Chapter #306.