Irma Jean Smith

Irma Jean Williams was born on August 31, 1934, in Auvergne, Arkansas, to Holsey and Lea Williams. With eight siblings and a home full of laughter, Irma’s childhood was a celebration of love and faith. When the Williams family made their big move to Los Angeles in 1943, their spiritual journey continued at Evening Star Missionary Baptist Church. At just eleven, Irma was baptized and dove right into church life with enthusiasm and joy.

Fast forward to 1954, Irma met William Tecumseh Smith II, and the sparks flew! After a whirlwind three-month romance, the pair tied the knot on February 26, 1955. Their love story lasted an incredible 51 years, and together they welcomed two children, Gina and William Tecumseh Smith III.

Irma kicked off her career at the Department of Public Social Services but really excelled at the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office. There, she became a Supervising Child Support Investigator, making a lasting impact until she retired in 1985.

Even as she grew older, Irma kept her spark alive. Despite health hurdles, she held onto her upbeat attitude and deep faith in Jesus Christ. Family and friends were her joy, whether mingling at gatherings, singing along, and volunteering at church events in California, or tuning in to teleministries from Texas, Irma was always in the mix. She delighted in music, plays, soap operas, phone chats, and the occasional casino adventure.

On January 30, 2026, Irma passed away peacefully at her home in McKinney, Texas, surrounded by love. She was preceded by five brothers, three sisters, her devoted husband, and her son.

Irma’s legacy lives on in her family and friends—her radiant smile and joyful, gentle spirit remain a bright light in the hearts of everyone who knew her.