Audrey M. Smith

Psalm 27: The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life: of whom shall I be afraid? Audrey M. Smith was born on March 10, 1941 to her parents, William and Ora Patterson. Audrey was baptized at an early age at Hayes Creek Baptist Church in Franklinton, Louisiana. She later became a member of Third Shiloh Baptist Church in New Orleans, Louisiana. Additionally, she was an active member of Central Missionary Baptist Church pastored by the late Edward S. Terry, Sr., where she served as a deaconess and member of the choir until Hurricane Katrina in 2005. She then relocated to Katy, TX and became a member of Southwest “The Bridge” Baptist Church, pastored by Gregg Patrick in Houston, Tx. She then moved her membership to Alief Baptist Church, pastored by Donald Burgs in Katy, TX. Audrey was a long time resident of New Orleans, Louisiana and was married to the late James Smith, Sr. She was employed at Xavier University, A & G Cafeteria and worked as a seamstress for many years. She attended Delgado Community College as a way to serve as an example to her children. She was a hard worker, and a go getter who was determined for excellence. She was an inspiration to many. She had great passion for helping others and was known in the community as the lady who fed and clothed those in need. She was selfless, mother to many, and loved and cared for children, relentlessly. She lived to help others and believed in giving back and improving the lives of others. She started a back to school prayer service for the children in the community. She also started a back pack drive and donated food to those in need. Her mission and purpose in life was to serve. A servant indeed. She lived her life on purpose, enjoyed spending time with family, and always sought to make others feel loved and accepted. Her love for others was unconditional. Audrey was a kind, caring and loving person. She was such a sweet loving soul. She leaves behind an impeccable legacy. It’s often that she would say, “it’s not that you don’t have time to do something, it’s making the time to do it.” She was GOLDEN, and so were her words. On Wednesday, November 18, 2020 @ 4:30am, mother was called home to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She leaves to continue her legacy 5 daughters; Joyce Harvey, Rockett Williams, Dr. Angie Smith, Schquanda Smith and Sherika Smith. She leaves 3 sons; Meltris Smith, James Smith and Michael Smith. She leaves two siblings; John Patterson of Franklinton, Louisiana and Lottie Meuchelbock (Peter) of San Antonio, Texas. She leaves two daughter in laws; Shelby Smith and Sharnique Smith. She leaves one son-in-law; Dimitri K. Smith. She leaves 10 grandchildren; Ivan L. Williams, II (Kristen), Michael Robinson (Crystal), Jasmine Robinson, Wanika Savage, Meltris Smith, Jr., Whitley Smith, D’Antri Smith, Dwayne Smith, D’Arrenique Hulbert, and Darren Hurlbert. She leaves 11 great grandchildren; Iyana L. Williams, Irie L. Williams, Michael Robinson, McKenzie Robinson, Dakota Hulbert, Daliah Hulbert, Nevaeh Hulbert, Darren Hulbert, Jr., Duchess Hulbert, Autumn Bickham and Aydem Savage. Two sister-in-laws; Jeanette Patterson and Sadie Patterson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. Audrey will be greeted in her heavenly home by her parents; William and Ora Patterson, her late husband; James Smith, Sr.,her brothers; William Patterson, Jr., Robert Patterson, and Alton Patterson. Her sisters; Vianne Patterson, Thelma Merrell, Lilian Brown, Iristine Hart, Verlean Vortice, Geraldine Thompson , Ada Horton and Melba L. Kagler and son; Reggie Smith. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Service at D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave., New Orleans, LA on Saturday, November 28, 2020 at 1:00 pm. Visitation will begin at 12:00 pm. Interment: Resthaven Cemetery 10400 Gentilly Road, New Orleans, LA. As mandated by the State of Louisiana due to the COVID-19 pandemic, attendance is limited. Everyone is required to adhere to all restrictions. You must wear a face mask at all times and practice social distancing. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook, share memories and condolences for the family.