Mildred Smith Black

Mildred Smith Black, 90, died peacefully in her sleep and entered her heavenly home on December 22, 2022. She was born and reared in Price, North Carolina, the daughter of the late Alene and Jack Smith. She was the last surviving one of 5 brothers and 4 sisters. She had one beloved daughter, Donna Yvonne Black, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her loving sons Daniel (Jane) of Greenville, SC and Jay (Kathy) of Troy, NC, one grandson, Houston Black of Walnut Cove, NC and three great grandchildren, Bella, Osiris and Oceana Black.

Mildred will be remembered by her love of the Lord and her love of her children and grandchildren. She was a lifelong Baptist and taught Sunday school during her active years. She was a Quality Technician for AT&T/Lucent for many years and finished her career with them in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Once she retired, she went on a mission trip to her dream location in Israel. She also loved music and enjoyed the music her talented siblings would play and sing. She was also a published poet and wrote many heartfelt poems, one of which is shared below.

There are no plans for a memorial service. Memorial contributions may be made to the organization near and dear to Mildred's heart, Billy Graham Evangelical Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 29201 or on their website Give Online. The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff of Interim Healthcare Hospice for the care they provided Mildred.

"Memories" by Mildred S. Black

I'm glad God gave us memory, so I can recall when you have gone I'm left alone,
The memory of your voice.

My eyes have dimmed from yesterday, I may not clearly see,
Yet with many miles between us your face is clear to me,
Because God in His goodness gave us memory.

The crows have landed on my face and left their footprints there;
Father Time has silently brushed silver through my hair.

My shoulders sag a little with a load of daily care,
My hands are wrinkled now and bent from many years of wear.

My thoughts may be slower now, not clear as they used to be.
Yet still I hold close to my heart these precious memories.