Fannie Mae Smith

With a heart that touched many and a spirit that could not be dimmed, our beloved one entered eternal rest. God in his infinite wisdom, called one of his faithful servants home on April 1, 2026.

Fannie Smith was born July 14, 1944, in Eagle Mills Arkansas to loving parents George and Lula Whittington. She was the fifth child of seven.

The family moved to Michigan in 1949 where she completed her early childhood education and graduated from the renowned South High School. Her love for learning did not stop there. She continued to take adult education courses, but she was most proud of attending Kendall College of Arts & Design.

Fannie was a mother of three children, Rodney, Monique and Tina. She parented with strength and intention, doing her best to guide her children and shape them into who they are today.

Fannie married Richard Smith in 1975, the love of her life, and moved to Lansing, Michigan. Here she gained a bonus child who she adored, Rachael.

Fannie was employed with the Lansing Public School system. She retired after working over twenty (20) years as a lead secretary. She was loved by HER staff and students.

With her artistic background, Fannie took the time and energy to thoughtfully create unique banners for every occasion, “If you know, you know.” Fannie truly had a remarkable eye for detail, coordinating colors, clothing and accessories that gave a stunning and expensive appearance. No matter what she could always find the perfect necklace to match anything.

While she loved fashion and design, her greatest identity was rooted in her faith. Fannie led many to Jesus with her ability to quote scriptures while singing and dancing. Fannie was raised at Faith Temple C.O.G.I.C, but was one of the original members of Immanuel's Temple Community Church, of Lansing, MI. She loved her church where she worshipped and gave servantry to God’s people.

Fannie took the phrase “cleanliness is next to Godliness “literally as she was such a meticulous housekeeper that when her children’s friends came to visit, they often thought they could eat off the floor; make no mistake about it, if you were visiting Fannie’s home, she was not ashamed to give you a broom or dish rag so you could help her clean too.

Fannie was preceded in death by her loving husband, Richard E. Smith, her beloved daughter Monique J. Saffold and her grandson, Sean Peay. her parents, George & Lula Whittington and her sister Shirley Marshall. Mentionable friends in heaven, Virginia Hunt, and Verna Rogers.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving and devoted children, Rodney Saddler, Crystal (Jeremiah) T. Hardley, and Rachell (Michael Thompson) Smith. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Rodney Saddler. Jasmine Saffold, Jalen Saddler, Jordan Saffold, Walter Griffith Jr., Wynter Griffith, and Autumn Weekley.

She was also blessed with a beautiful legacy of Great-grandchildren, Corey Pritchett, Corryn (ZY ZY), Pritchett, Nova (Gig Renee) Saddler, and Dakota Saddler who brought her immense joy and pride.

Fannie is survived by her beloved Siblings, Barbara Hicks, Mary Dean Grady, Ivory Hibbitts, Rev. Dr. Jeremiah (Kaye) Whittington, and Ethel (Daymon) Turner. Mentionable friends, Janette Muse, Ruby Hicks, Rainey Hall, and the Sewings Family, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and close loved ones who will continue to honor her legacy.

Fannie’s life reflected love, faith, style and strength. She will be deeply missed, yet her memory will live on in all who knew and loved her.