Ms. Margaret Francis Smith

Margaret “Rachel” Francis Smith, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, entered this world on November 5, 1936, born to Oliver Bryant and Mollie McDonald Bryant. On April 10, 2026, she peacefully transitioned from this life, surrounded by the love of her family and the comforting presence of God’s grace. Margaret was the devoted mother of Cleveland McDonald (deceased), Pastor Dr. Tonja Smith Alexander, Johnnie Smith, Dr. Barbara (Maverick) Alexander, Andre (Dee) Beamon, Dhana Alexander, John (Jocelyn) Smith Jr., Verneic (Kenneth Sr.) Fluker, Tara Nunn, Wasima Smith, Denise (James) Clark, and Mark (Angela) Fleming. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: IIsha (John D.) Hudson III, David (Lauren) Brown Jr., Toni (William) Wade Sr., Billy Smith, and Erika Smith. She was blessed with thirteen great-grandchildren, seven great-greatgrandchildren, one Goddaughter, Aminta Carter, and her beloved cousin, Louis Jackson. A proud graduate of Frederic Douglas High School in Sherman, Texas, Margaret moved to Peoria, Illinois, at age 26, where she built a life rooted in family, faith, and service for more than six decades. She retired from Caterpillar after years of dedicated work and later she continued her calling to care for others as a home healthcare provider. Her compassion extended even further as a foster grandparent at PCCEO, where she touched the lives of countless children with her warmth, humor, and wisdom. In 2025, she relocated to Texas, where she enjoyed precious time with her family until her peaceful departure. Margaret was a faithful member of Pleasant Grove Ministry Baptist Church, serving joyfully on the United Usher Board. Her radiant smile could brighten any room, and her quick wit brought laughter to all who knew her. With a heart overflowing with kindness and an unshakable faith in God, she lived a life marked by generosity, resilience, and grace. Her presence was a gift, and her spirit will continue to inspire all who were blessed to share in her journey. She was preceded in death by her parents; former husband, Rev. Big John Smith Sr.; brothers John Lee McDonald, Orlando McDonald, Charlie McDonald, Joseph Bryant, and Andrew Bryant; sisters Ethel Bryant, Annebelle Wilson, Virginia Southern, Liza McDonald, and Lizzy McDonald; granddaughter Vanessa Smith; and great-grandsons Dahvie Brown and Avion Smith. Margaret “Rachel” Francis Smith’s light will forever shine in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who loved her. Though she has gone home to glory, her legacy of love will never fade. A Celebration of Life Service for Margaret Smith will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Word of Faith Christian Center at 10:00 a.m. with visitation commencing one hour prior at 12:00 p.m. Bishop Leroy Davis will host and present the eulogy. Margaret will be interned at Parkview Cemetery Arrangements were made especially for the “Smith” family and professionally directed by T.W. Parks Colonial Chapel. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of “Margaret Smith” please visit our Sympathy Store.

Ms. Margaret Francis Smith

November 5, 1936 - April 10, 2026