Ms. Benita Smith

Benita Smith was suddenly called home to be with the Lord on Monday, January 2, 2023 at Covenant Medical Center-Harrison at the age of 51 years. Benita, the daughter of Etta B. Smith and Franklin Smith, Sr. was born on March 21, 1971 in Saginaw, Michigan. Benita’s life may have seemed too short to some, but those of us who were fortunate enough to be a part of it understand that her presence and the imprint she left on our hearts outweighed the time she was here. Benita was a phenomenal woman indeed, with a beautiful smile that immediately lit up any room and a heart of gold to match; leaving a positive impression everywhere she went. A self-proclaimed selfie queen who enjoyed shopping, making crafts, taking pictures, cooking delicious food, and spending quality time with family especially her favorite sidekick, her grandson Amier Scott, as well as her friends who became family. As a God-fearing queen, Benita loved listening to gospel music and attending church with her mother Etta and daughter Tiera. With style and grace, Benita was truly heaven sent extending her hand to anyone who was in need. She was a solid shoulder to lean on. Even during the mist of her own storm, Benita remained a positive force and held on to the word of God until her last breath. She was incredibly in love with her children and grandchildren-her entire family as a whole. The love was mutual, and she was adored by many. Benita will be desperately missed by all those that she leaves behind. Our hearts are so broken by this loss. She was one of a kind, and to be loved by her was to be truly blessed. Her beautiful life will forever be cherished by her daughter, Tiera Scott (Demetris); two sons, Quinttrevious McDonald and Dequantus McDonald-Weaver; two grandchildren, Amir and Amia Scott; siblings, Franklin Smith, Jr., Shiela Little and Anthony Howard; two god-children, Kaiesha Sutton and Sanaii Liles; god-sister, Marlo Cooperwood (Andrew); a host of nephews, cousins, loving aunts and uncles, extended family and friends, Takeisha and Quentila Howard as well as her sister friend, Sonya Cameron who assisted her with love and care in her final days. Benita will be remembered by every person she touched. And although our hearts will never be the same, we are blessed to have known an amazing woman who is truly in a class of her own. Benita was greeted in glory by her grandmother, Zeola McDonald; aunts, Beulah Jones, Clara Howard, Karen Moore; uncles, Lovon Little, Alexander Smith and Alvin Childs; cousins, Melvin and Gardner Howard and a god-brother, Joseph Redeener II. Family hour 10:30 AM Friday, January 13, 2023, at Prince Of Peace Baptist Church, 725 N. 24th St., Saginaw, Michigan 48601 with the funeral service commencing at 11:00 AM. Pastor Robert Corley officiate. Interment will take place in Forest Lawn Cemetery, 3210 S. Washington, Saginaw, MI 48601. Visitation will take place from 9:00 AM until time of service.

Ms. Benita Smith

March 21, 1971 - January 2, 2023