Bertha Wright Smith

Bertha Wright Smith was born on February 3, 1935, in Caroline County, Virginia, to the late Robert and Marie Wright. She peacefully entered eternal rest on July 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Bertha accepted Christ at an early age and became a faithful member of St. John Baptist Church in Woodford, Virginia. Throughout the years, she faithfully served as a Women's Day Captain and was an active member of the Usher Ministry and the Kitchen Committee.

On June 21, 1952, she married James Welford Smith, and together they were blessed with eight children, building a family rooted in faith, love, and strong values.

For many years, Bertha lovingly cared for generations of neighborhood children, opening her home to families throughout the community. Families entrusted her with their greatest treasures, knowing their children would be cared for as her own. The lives she helped shape remain a lasting part of her legacy.

Bertha was the heart of her family and a source of strength. She believed in respect, responsibility, faith, and doing things the right way. She led by example, spoke with honesty, and showed her love through her actions. Her guidance and resilience continue to inspire generations.

Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where family and friends gathered to enjoy her home-cooked meals, fresh-baked desserts, and simply being together. She made everyone feel welcome, and the memories created around her table will be cherished for generations.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Welford Smith; her son, Welford Smith, Sr.; her parents, Robert and Marie Wright; and eight siblings: Robert  Wright, Jr., Virginia L. Carter, Clarence Wright, Charlie Wright, James Wright, Major Wright, Bernard Wright, and Rosa Mae Purcell.

Bertha's legacy lives on through the family she raised, the children she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched. Her love, faith, and strength will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Bertha Mae Sims (Wilbur) and Sarah Smith, both of Ruther Glen, Virginia, and Kathy Williams (Dwain) of Woodford, Virginia; her sons, John W. Smith, Roderick Smith (Marco), and Keith Smith (Deirdre), all of Woodford, Virginia, and Thomas Smith (Lucille) of Ruther Glen, Virginia; thirteen grandchildren, twenty-seven great-grandchildren, and fifteen great-great-grandchildren; her sisters, Ruth Wright and Elizabeth Boone; her sisters-in-law, Evelyn Smith and Letisha Boone; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.