Deaconess Annette Dargan

Annette Davis Dargan, affectionately known as Ann, was born on May 2, 1931, in Washington, DC, to Leon K. Davis and Naomi C. Davis. The beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 17, 2024, peacefully at her home. Annette was one of six children. She grew up with her siblings in a loving family. Annette was educated in the District of Columbia Public School System. She attended Cardozo Senior High School, where she excelled in academics, and later furthered her education at Miner Teachers College (Known as Minor University).

Annette had a successful career. She worked for the Federal Government at the Department of Agriculture. She retired after 37 years of federal service. Upon retirement, Annette started another passion of hers. She became a volunteer. Due to her overwhelming love for her grandchildren and education, she became a volunteer at the various schools they attended. She volunteered at Fort Lincoln and Glenarden Woods Elementary School, where she earned the Outstanding Volunteer Award multiple times. Annette was known for her wittiness, creativity, and dedication. Beyond her professional achievements, Annette was a generous, kind-hearted soul.

Annette married Arthur F. Smith, and they had two children, Phyllis A. Smith and Warren A. Smith. In 1973, she remarried Claude Dargan Jr. and together, they built a life filled with joy and love. Annette's faith In Christ was central to her life, guiding her through both triumphs and challenges.

Annette accepted Christ at an early age. She attended Zion Baptist Church on F Street SW. In 1957, She joined the Providence Baptist Church (later known as the Providence St. John Baptist Church) under the pastorship of the late Rev. G.E Stevenson, where her mother was a faithful member. She remained at the church for many years under the leadership of the late Rev. Carey E. Pointer Sr. During the transition of the church, Annette continued to serve under the pastorship of Dr. Phillip L. Pointer Sr. Annette remained a faithful leader and servant under her now Pastor, Rev. Billy T. Staton Jr.

Annette was the teacher of all teachers. She served in many capacities in her 67 years at Providence. She taught Sunday School for 36 years (1969-2005). She taught generations of families. She was the assistant superintendent of Sunday School. She was the President of the General Guilds, she taught Vacation Bible Study, and she was the Prayer Leader of the Missionary Society. Also, she was the President of the Deaconess Board and served every Sunday until she physically was unable to do so.

Annette loved shopping, from Woodward & Lothrop, Garfinckel, G.C. Murphys, Hecht's, Sears, and more. She loved shopping for just about anything. Annette loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Many times, she would be seen playing a game of King’s Corner or laughing non-stop for no reason at all. Annette enjoyed the holidays because it brought the family together. She would make her famous spaghetti, rice pudding, and Trifle and portion It all so everyone could get at least one serving.

Annette’s life was marked by love, joy, and the Lord. She was a devoted mother, caring grandmother, and loyal friend. Her radiant smile and positive energy left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Annette's legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and a commitment to everyone she encountered.

Annette is survived by her children, one daughter, Phyllis (Alicia) Smith; and one son, Warren Smith; her three grandchildren, Warren Smith (LaKeisha), Tawan Smith (Lene), and Maya Smith; her six great-grandchildren, Sahara, Jahara, Londyn, Jaelyn, Brooklyn, and West; her forever daughter-in-love Areela; a host of nieces and nephews and many extended family members and friends. Her memory will be cherished forever.

Annette was proceeded in death by her husbands, Arthur Smith and Claude Dargan Jr., Naomi C. Davis (Mother), Leon K. Davis (father), her siblings, Clinton B. Davis (Brother), Ellsworth R. Davis (Brother), Juanita D. Robinson (Sister), Paulina A. Matthews (Sister) and Gene M. Green (Sister)

A visitation for Annette will be held Monday, November 4, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Providence St. John Baptist Church, 5607 Old Crain Highway, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772.

Her funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM in Providence St. John Baptist Church, 5607 Old Crain Highway, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772.

Annette's graveside service process to the Washington National Cemetery, 4101 Suitland Rd, Suitland-Silver Hill, MD 20746 after her services and memories.