Mary V. (Smith) James

Sister Mary Elizabeth James passed on April 9, 2024, at the age of 84. She was the second child of Adolf Smith and Mary Ella Dawson. Her adopted parents, Harry and Lillian Frye; two brothers, Matthew Smith and James Thomas Smith of whom all proceeded her in death.

She is survived by two sisters-in-law’s Ms. Leslie Clark and Mrs. Joan Mercer, one nephew James Canada Smith, Jr; a host of cousins, great cousins, great- great cousins and many friends and acquaintances; two devoted friends Mrs. Adele Beasley, Fredericksburg, Virginia, Mrs. Dorothy Jones of Worcester, Massachusetts, and her Caretaker Ms. Linda Hilliard, two devoted friends Deacon Timmie and Mrs. Cherie Phillips, who Mary considered her brother and sister.

Sister Mary joined the Mount Hope Baptist Church, Fredericksburg, Virginia, under the pastorate of the late Reverend Dr. Webster Christmas.  After leaving Virginia with her late husband, Mary joined the Emmanuel Baptist Church in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Sister Mary served on many organizations at Emmanuel Baptist such as the Willing Workers Club, the Missionary Society, and the Thrift Store Ministry.  Mary was one of the finest ushers in the State of Virginia as well as Massachusetts.   She also worked tirelessly as the Custodian opening the doors of the church for Emmanuel Baptist and was also an active participant of the NAACP.

Mary graduated from H.H. Poole High School, Stafford, Virginia. She retired from Salvation Army Social Service, Worcester, Massachusetts.  

One of Mary’s favorite doings was getting together with her dear friend, Mrs. Dorothy Jones, who she referred Mary to as “Toots” was going to the beautician and nail salon to have their hair and nails done in fashionable styles.  After that treat, they would go out too many of their favorite restaurants to eat, sit, chat and fellowship for hours.  That’s what friends are for!

A period of Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, April 18, 2024, from 10:00am to 11:00am at MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. At 11:00am a Funeral Service will be held for Sister Mary. She will be laid to rest at a later date in Fredericksburg, Virginia.