Ethel "Cherry" Maria Williams Smith

Ethel "Cherry" Maria Williams Smith, cherished daughter, loving mother, devoted grandmother, and faithful friend, peacefully transitioned into her eternal home in Heaven on November 20, 2025, at her residence in Stapleton. Born on February 18, 1954, Cherry was a light in the lives of those who knew her, known for her generous spirit and unwavering love for her family.

Cherry's early education took place in the Keysville-Matthews area, where she made the brave choice to leave school in the eighth grade to marry and start her family. In a testament to her strength and determination, she returned to education in 1994, obtaining her GED and subsequently graduating from Augusta Technical School with an Associate's degree. This journey reflected her commitment to personal growth and resilience.

Her career saw her wearing many hats, as Cherry worked various local jobs that included working at Hardees, McDonald's, a dry-cleaning establishment in Thomson, serving as a secretary for a law office in Evans, and delighting patrons as a cook at Raley's Restaurant in Mitchell. Each role showcased her dedication and ability to connect with the community around her.

Known affectionately by second name "Cherry," a name that reflected her sweet and loving personality, she had a kind heart, always generous with her affection, especially for the "babies" in her life. Her love for family was boundless; she cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, often expressing her joy through laughter and warm gatherings.

Her passion extended beyond her family. Cherry had a special affinity for dogs and found joy in worshiping her Lord and Savior at Stapleton Baptist Church, where she participated and found fellowship over the last twelve years. Additionally, she had an eclectic collection of purses, shoes, and an enormous array of Barbies that delighted her, not to mention her love for reading and games on her phone, which kept her engaged and entertained.

Cherry is survived by her beloved daughter, Marsha "Rachael" Castro (Tavo Perez); her adored grandchildren, Chris Newsome, Michael Glabas, Candace Blue (Jeffrey), and Santina Hyman (James); and her great-grandchildren, Martin "Peanut" Hendrickson, Charles "C B" Hendrickson, Olivia Hendrickson, Jedidiah "Jed" Blue, and McKenzie Glabas. She also leaves behind her siblings, Charles "Bubba" Williams (Lisa) and Sue Utley (Buddy), along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, other extended family, church family, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Cherry is preceded in death by her spouse, Carey Allen Smith; her parents, Virginia Hayes Williams and Charles "Kenny" Williams; and her sister, Connie W. Moss.

The family will receive friends at James Funeral Home from 11:00AM – 1:00PM Tuesday, November 25, 2025 with the funeral service, officiated by Rev. Josh Mosley and Rev. David Kitchens, following at 1:00PM in the James Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be in Stapleton Memorial Gardens. Honored to serve as pallbearers include Jeffrey Blue, James Hyman, Tavo Perez, Jesse Perkins, Victor Utley and Ricky Williams.

Because of their unexpected and sudden loss, the family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made directly to James Funeral Home.

Cherry’s legacy of love, kindness, and joy will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be forever remembered for the happiness she brought and the lives she touched throughout her lifetime.