Cheryl Bonita Smith

With deep love and gratitude for a life richly lived, we announce the passing of Cheryl B. Smith on July 4, 2025. She was born in Charleston, South Carolina on March 17, 1953 to the late David and Mary Smith.

Cheryl graduated from M. Rutledge Rivers High School and remained a devoted member of Saint Matthew Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. B. J. Whipper. She embraced her spiritual calling by serving faithfully on the Usher Board, taking great joy in welcoming fellow worshippers.

Following high school, Cheryl began her career in the federal government civil service, which led her to relocate from Charleston, South Carolina to Oakland, California. There, she worked for many years at the Naval Station in Alameda and was an active member of the Alameda branch of the NAACP.

In addition to her civilian career, Cheryl proudly served in the United States Army Reserve, where she rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class. Later in life, she transferred to Jacksonville, Florida, where she completed her distinguished civil service career. Cheryl continued her walk of faith by joining St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Middleburg, Florida, where she once again served as an usher, remaining steadfast in her ministry of hospitality and service.

Cheryl was a woman of strength and purpose. Her life was a testament of deep love for God, family, and community. She was a generous soul and gave freely her time, her resources, and most of all, her heart. She faithfully cared for the sick and shut-in, extending compassion and presence to those often forgotten.

Gifted with the art of conversation, Cheryl had the unique ability to challenge and inspire through her words. Her laughter - joyful, bold, and contagious - reflected the light she brought into every room she entered.

Cheryl leaves behind her loving siblings: Pamela Cannon, Kevin Smith and Dale Smith as well as a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother David Smith II and dear sister Tonya Smith.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” – Psalm 116:15

We love you, Cheryl. Your laughter still echoes, your love still surrounds us, and your light will never fade.

Funeral services will be held 11 AM, Tuesday July 22, 2025 at St Johns Missionary Baptist Church, Orange Park, FL with visitation held 1 hour prior to service at the church. Burial will follow at Jacksonville Memory Gardens. Arrangements by Hardage-Giddens Rivermead Funeral Home, 127 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL. Please post words of comfort at www.hardage-giddensrivermead.com.