The season of life for Gussie Pearl Smith began in Sylvester, Georgia on November 27, 1936. She was the beloved daughter of Ella "Muh" Cook and Johnnie B. Smith.
During the early years of her life, she was educated in the Worth County School System.

Gussie was raised in a Christian home where she was taught the Word of God and the importance of living a life of integrity, strong values, and loving kindness.

She received the gift of the Holy Spirit, was baptized in Jesus' name, and devoted herself unwaveringly tin Christian stewardship. She was a faithful member of New Life of Albany. "Gussie Pearl, Ms. Gussie, Mother Smith" as she was endearingly called, was a prayer warrior who was deeply rooted and grounded in the Lord.

Her faith and trust in God guided her life and allowed her to be an example for her family, friends, and all who encountered her.

Domestic at heart, Mother Smith ate not the bread of idleness and often sacrificed her needs for the good of her family. For many years, she took great pride in her work as she progressed through the ranks at Albany Linen Service. Upon retirement, she was lauded as a loyal, conscientious, and dedicated employee who rendered outstanding and unparalleled service. Throughout her employment, she touched many lives and forged lasting friendships that will forever be remembered. She enjoyed singing and spending quality time with her family.

Blessed beyond measure, Mother Smith had a rich and rewarding life; reached the hallowed age of 86; and lived to see generations of her off-springs with whom she left a legacy of love, humility, generosity, and godliness. She had a servant's heart and took great pride in using her God-given talents to help others. To the hungry, she offered food; to the sick, she offered compassion; to the broken hearted, she offered consolation; and to the lost, she offered hope and guidance.

One of her greatest pleasures in life was cooking. Oftentimes, she could be found in the kitchen preparing soulful feasts, including her mouth-watering collard greens and peach cobbler. She put her heart and soul into her succulent dishes. Ms. Gussie will be remembered as an unselfish servant with a sweet, sweet spirit.

Having spent her final days at Pruitt Health, Almighty God called his faithful servant home to eternal rest on May 19, 2023. She was surrounded by family and friends who loved her and supportive staff who cared for her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Edna Dean (Winfred) Allen; and her brother, Eddie "Buddy" Smith.

Mother Smith leaves beautiful memories that will forever remain in the hearts of her sons, Walter (Geniva) Smith, Donnell (Sharon) Smith, Franklin (Ola) Smith,and Avery Cooper; grandchildren and great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.