Annie Lazelle Mitchell Smith

A CELEBRATION OF A REMARKABLE LIFE: There is glory in her story

Annie Lazelle Mitchell Smith was born in Forsyth County on April 15,1926 to William Robah and Lillie Mae Glenn Mitchell. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Edward Smith. She joins and completes her family in heaven: Vecue, Larston, Belmont, Thelma, Bernita, Eldridge, Margaret Lucille and Longworth.

Annie graduated from Livingstone College with a bachelor’s degree in English. She continued her education at Columbia University where she earned a master’s degree in Secondary Education. She went on to teach high school English and French at Carver High School in Forsyth County for over thirty years. She was known for being firm but fair while stressing that education was the key to success. Her students loved her and she loved them; many of whom sought her wise counsel and mentoring even after retirement.

Annie, affectionately known as Nana, was a beautiful person who loved people, beautiful things and enriching experiences. Her flower garden was a testament to this and she spent many enjoyable hours tending it. Her garden attracted all kinds of butterflies whose beauty she collected in various forms including puzzles, pillows, keepsakes, paintings, and apparel. She also enjoyed canning and freezing fresh food, making her famous sweet tea, singing in the choir, raising children and grandchildren and nailing a good bargain as she was an avid shopper.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She and her siblings, especially her sisters, held a special lifelong bond. There was also a deep and special love for her immediate family whom she leaves to cherish her memory: daughter, Denise McDonald (Edwin); son, Christopher Smith (Valeria); grandchildren, Portia Wall, Quentin Smith, and Winston Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews and special friends.

She was a lifelong member of Stewards Chapel AME Zion Church in Rural Hall, NC where she held numerous positions: Trustee, Missionary Leader, Usher Board and Senior Choir Member.

Annie, like many of her contemporaries, was a pioneer and trailblazer throughout challenging yet rewarding times. Her personal and professional challenges and successes will forever define her life through the times in which she lived for over one hundred years. She navigated each significant season with grace and left an indelible mark upon all those whose lives she touched. She truly was a remarkable woman for whom there is indeed glory in her story.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Thursday, September 24, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00noon Friday, September 25, 2026 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. The family visitation will be held from 11:00am until 12:00noon on Friday at the Chapel.