Ms. Vertis Pippins-Smith

On Saturday, May 31, 2025, the heavens resounded with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant,” as Missionary Vertis P. Smith peacefully entered into eternal rest. Vertis Mae Hunter was born on May 8, 1929, in Georgetown, Georgia, to the late William and Hattie Hunter. She was the youngest of eleven children, raised in a family that was rich in faith, resilience, and love. In the 1960s, she relocated to Saginaw, Michigan, where she would build a lasting legacy for her family and community. Vertis dedicated much of her life to service—in both healthcare and ministry. She pursued her passion for caregiving by becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse, faithfully serving at Saginaw Osteopathic Hospital for 20 years. Vertis followed a vision and founded PIP Rentals, establishing herself as a successful entrepreneur, a respected real estate investor and as a woman of color, she was a pace setter. Missionary Smith was devoted to her church having the longest membership than anyone in the congregation. She served at Coleman Temple C.O.G.I.C. under the leadership of Pastor Hurley J. Coleman, Sr. and proudly served at World Outreach Campus with Bishop Hurley J. Coleman, Jr. A woman of unwavering faith, Vertis, alongside her beloved son Xavier Pippins, earned a Certificate in Christian Training from The American Baptist Theological Seminary in Saginaw Township in 1987. Her Christian education laid the foundation for a life marked by leadership, devotion, and compassionate servanthood. She touched countless lives through her ministry and acts of kindness, leaving an indelible impact on all who knew her. Vertis P. Smith leaves to cherish her memory: one loving daughter, Linda Baker of Saginaw, MI; two devoted sons, Virgil (Theresa) Pippins of Conyers, GA, and Donald Pippins of Saginaw, MI; a dear daughter-in-law, Elaine Pippins of Oxen Hills, Maryland; and one beloved sister, Geneva Alcindor of Morris, GA. She leaves to cherish her memory, 15 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 10 great- great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by two sons, Harvey Pippins Jr. and Xavier Pippins and her siblings, Lawrence, Woodrow, Valma, Bessie, Mary, Hattie, Willie, M.L., Alice, and Milledge Family hour will take place at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at World Outreach Campus, 2405 Bay Rd. Saginaw, MI 48602 with funeral service commencing at 11:00 a.m. Bishop Hurley J. Coleman, Jr. will officiate. Entombment will take place in Oakwood Memorial Mausoleum, 5950 Gratiot Rd., Saginaw, MI 48638. Visitation will take place Tuesday at the funeral home from 2:00-6:00 p.m.

Ms. Vertis Pippins-Smith

May 8, 1929 - May 31, 2025