Willmer Jean Smith

Mrs. Willmer Jean Smith, 76, of Vancleave, MS passed away on June 24, 2020. Mrs. Smith is preceded in death by her parents, C.L. and Lavern Holder; her brothers, Harry Holder and John Willie Holder; sister, Dimple Smith; sister-in-law, Elaine Holder and brother-in-law, Bob Smith. Mrs. Smith is survived by her husband of nearly 60 years, Dana Smith; daughters, Dorine (Wally) Page, and Cassandra (Steve) Bradley; son, Adam Smith; brothers, E.M. Holder, Joseph (Blossom) Holder, Jerry Holder, and Wendell (Gwen) Holder; her sisters, Madie (Howard) Cazzell and Candis (Bruce) Post; as well as three grandchildren, Whitney (Chris) Lett, Justin Mills, and Cole Bradley. Willmer Jean was a strong woman who rose above adversity, fought to overcome her fears, and bounced back from challenges - no matter the circumstances. She was true to herself, and not afraid to reveal her feelings, share her opinions, or speak her truth. She was filled with kindness, generosity, and compassion. She was affectionately known as Aunt Jeanie by almost everyone even if she wasn’t your Aunt. She was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Vancleave and enjoyed spending time with her family and being outside, whether it was camping, gardening or sitting on her porch in the Georgia mountains. As a Mother and Grandmother, she always considered her children (Dorine, Adam, and Cassandra) and grandchildren (Whitney, Justin, and Cole) her greatest blessing and a favorite gift from God. She was so very proud of each of their accomplishments. She was grateful for her church family and found joy in the church members, especially her Sunday school class. Dana and Willmer Jean retired a few years apart and bought a house in Blue Ridge, Georgia. They loved to watch the sunrise and sunset over the mountains and especially enjoyed visits from family and friends. She loved to listen and dance to live Bluegrass music and on Sunday mornings would listen to Bluegrass music while getting ready for church. Most importantly, Willmer Jean loved deeply and never stopped loving. She loved each of her family members unconditionally and was committed to bringing joy to their lives. Together, we reminisce about all the great memories we have had with her. Although we cannot help but to continue to wipe the tears away, we know she is with our Heavenly Father – worry-free, happy, and free from pain. As she would say “God is with me, God is with you.” She will forever be missed, and will forever be in our hearts and on our minds. Watch over us all, our guardian angel. These are some verses that Mom said carried her through some hard times: Psalms 34:4 For I cried to him and he answered me; He freed me from all my fears. Psalms 29:11 The Lord will give strength unto his people; The Lord will bless his people with peace. A visitation for Mrs. Smith will be held at First Baptist Church of Vancleave, 12513 Hwy 57, on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 from 10:00am - 11:00am. Service to begin at 11:00am with burial to follow at Vancleave Cemetery #1. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve this family.