Tammy D Smith

Unto His Grace she returned, Tammy Deshawn Smith our Father’s faithful servant departed from this life on January 17th, 2024 at 7:51am. Nonetheless, the sun beamed bright and it was a celebration, she’d come full circle; it was her birthday! At 62 years of age, hours of happy birthday, worship songs, and one last peaceful breath; our heavenly angel whispered for her to rise to eternal rest. Through His Grace, Tammy Deshawn Smith was born to the parentage of Billy Jo & Bessie Lee Wilson 5:09am at Memorial Hospital in Pecos, TX. She often spoke of her love for her grandmother Hattie Smith whom she adored as well as her grandfather Herman Smith. Tammy grew up in the Oak Cliff Community on Ryan Road where the family house still remains. She enjoyed hanging out with a block of neighborhood friends, her younger brother Andre Wilson, and a few of her first cousins Christie, Sharon, Tina, and Nell. Tammy attended Justin F. Kimball High School graduating proudly with the class of 1981.

Despite challenges faced growing up, Tammy courageously journeyed on her own to live in West Dallas Housing where she met and dated John Streets and together they had their only daughter Tiesha Smith. It was apparent that Tammy was a child of the King; a community embraced her and helped her along the way! She was filled with joy in being able to baby sit for others; and in doing so she found her sense of purpose.

Sister Tammy joined Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church where she faithfully served as a member for many years. She excitedly performed duties on the deaconess board and was a cheerful giver. Anytime the family needed her to act accordingly all we had to do was say we were going to call Pastor Johnson and all storms would quiet down!

My fondest memories of my mother are how fun she was and her infectious laugh that followed with a cough! Mom and I played together whether it be jacks, go fish, or spades; we even wrestled and she’d tickle me as I laughed until I cried. Mom walked me to school everyday and I remember begging her to let me walk alone with friends 6 & 7 grade. She was probably one of the only parents attending parent teacher conference in high school. Friends would see mom and tell me that she’s coming!

She is preceded in death by her grandparents Hattie and Herman Smith, Aunt Emma Mae Coleman, her Father Billy Jo Wilson, and cousins Marquavious Coleman and Quintravious Coleman, Lifelong Friend Wilford Lee Bowens, and Lifelong friend John Byron Streets. Tammy leaves to cherish her memories: Daughter Tiesha White, Son In Love: Marques White, 3 grandchildren: Makhi White (17), Micah White (15), and Tamia White (7); Extended Son: Wilford Donnell Green (Lil Wilford), Extended Daughter: Antionette Whitaker, Mother: Bessie Lee Wilson, Brother: Andre Wilson, Sister: Alisha Wilson, Niece: Jazmine Wilson, and a host of cousins.