Ann Marie Smith

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ann Marie Smith, a devoted daughter, sister and aunt, cherished friend, and accomplished professional whose life was defined by faith, love, and compassion for others. Ann Marie departed this life on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, achievement, and adventure.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in Queens, NY, Ann Marie attended PS 176, where she formed lifelong friendships that brought her joy and fulfillment throughout her life. She excelled in academics and athletics at Brooklyn Technical High School, where she pursued Electrical Engineering and was recognized as a high school all-American track star in indoor and outdoor cross-country. Ann was also a natural leader, and served as senior class secretary while attending Brooklyn Tech. In her younger years, she played softball and handball and continued to embrace new activities in her later years, including yoga, racquetball, tennis and golf.

Ann Marie matriculated to Syracuse University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (1986). After college, she began her career at Raytheon Missile Systems as a Systems Engineer. In 1990, she joined Xerox where she developed strong friendships and held numerous leadership roles, including Vice President & General Manager of Global Document Outsourcing. A trailblazer in her field, Ann Marie earned accolades for her exemplary work, including trips through Xerox's prestigious President’s Club. While at Xerox, she completed an Executive Development program at the Kellogg School of Management of Northwestern University (2005). At the age of 53, Ann Marie retired from Xerox as Vice President of Business Intelligence & Sales Management Process. After retirement, Ann Marie settled in Raleigh, North Carolina, to be closer to her family, including her godchildren, with whom she shared many precious memories.

Her faith and devotion to the Lord were central to her life. Ann Marie’s early years were spent as an altar server at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Cambria Heights, Queens, and she continued her spiritual journey in North Carolina, where she was an active choir member and formed lasting friendships through her church community. After relocating to Alpharetta, Ann Marie attended virtual services at Christian Cultural Center.

Ann Marie’s adventurous spirit led her to explore the world, and she especially enjoyed cruising, often traveling with her mother and close friends. Ann Marie also cherished the moments she spent with her beloved grandmother, Mom Pearl, whom she would often visit until her grandmother’s passing. Ann Marie’s vibrant personality, contagious smile, and kind heart made her beloved by all who knew her. Her commitment to excellence extended beyond her career, as she was an active member of the National Society of Black Engineers and a proud Mary Kay representative.

Ann Marie is survived by her loving mother, Dorothy, brother Michael Nicholas, niece, Tatiana Nicholas, a beloved aunt, Hariette Smith Hinds, Richard Henry, Lexis Henry, Courtney Henry, Dave Smith, Garcia Smith, Giselle Smith, Margo Ware and her godchildren, Carlo Laurore, Jessika Sargent, and Joshua Laurore. Ann Marie leaves behind a host of extended family, including cousins, her dearest friends, who were her chosen family, including Lorna Anderson, Mya Pia Gero, Janice Laurore, Kym Gero-Burris, Robin Brown, and Mellissa Hudson.

Ann Marie’s life was a testament to love, hard work, and faith. She was a treasured friend to all who knew her, including her colleagues from Xerox, alumni from Brooklyn Technical High School and Syracuse University. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Alzheimers Association in memory of Ann Marie Smith.

Ann Marie’s memory and beautiful smile will forever live in the hearts of all those who were blessed to know her.

A visitation for Ann Marie will be held Tuesday, January 21, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Roswell Funeral Home, 950 Mansell Road, Roswell, GA 30076, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. For those unable to attend the service, it will be livestreamed on the Roswell Funeral Home Facebook page.

Following the service, Ann Marie will be laid to rest in Green Lawn Cemetery & Mausoleum, 950 Mansell Rd, Roswell, Georgia 30076. Following the interement, friends are invited to join the family for a repast in the Event Room of Roswell Funeral Home.