Blanche Berry Smith

Blanche met Willie Pete Smith Senior in Batesville, Mississippi. This union produced 17 children, 15 of which grew to adulthood; 8 boys and 7 girls.

Blanche’s Brady Bunch included: Willa Mae, Louise, Willie Pete Jr., Perry, Julius, C.W., Cleo, Minerva, Sterling, Christine, Dorothy, Patricia Ann, Lee Andrew, Blaine, Alice and Sandra . Blanche and Willie Pete stayed briefly in Roosevelt Island, Arkansas a small town outside of Marion, Arkansas before settling in Gary, Indiana. Willie Pete Senior has since preceded Blanche in death.

Blanche was always busy and would let no grass grow under her feet. She was a strong believer in helping people in the community. She often traveled with the Salvation Army through Zion Baptist Church. In her spare time Blanche was stitching her lap throws and robes getting ready to have Sandra take her by the Church or Senior Citizen Homes to drop off a lap throw. She didn’t like to be cold and she wanted to make sure everyone was comfortable. Every new born child in the Smith family had a welcome baby throw too.

Blanche departed this life Sunday, June 7, 2015 peacefully in her home at the age of 100. 102 according to her social security card and the Census at that time. The Smith Family was blessed to have cherished this strong Matriarch and Centenarian who was solid in her faith to her Heavenly Father. She was feisty, full of life and never missed a beat. “Pitter Patter “ as she was so often called because she was strong-willed and determined and definitely made a difference in everyone’s life she touched.

She leaves to cherish her memory by her children Willie Pete Jr., Cleo, Minerva, Christine, Patricia Ann, Lee Andrew, Blaine, Alice and Sandra. Over 300 children, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, friends and neighbors. I’ll miss you grandma ...you were my best friend!

A mom's hug lasts long after she lets go.