Sandra "Sandi" Gayle Smithson, a loving soul whose warmth and generosity touched everyone she met, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on October 6, 1938, in New York, Sandi spent her life sharing kindness and compassion with all who had the privilege of knowing her. As a faithful member of North Clay Baptist Church, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her faith, her family, and her community.
Sandi is predeceased by her mother, Mary Brown-Arnold.
Sandi leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on through her devoted husband, Gooch Smithson, who was by her side for 65 years of cherished memories. She is also survived by her children, David McKeever (Kay), Michael Smithson (Karen), and Tammie Berry (Lester), each of whom carry forward the love and values she instilled in them. Her heart swelled with pride for her grandchildren, Nicole Ard (Ken), Michelle Hammond (Arthur), Matthew Smithson, and Alex Tracy (Matthew), and she was blessed with the joy of two great-grandchildren, with another on the way, whose lives she so lovingly touched.
A Visitation to honor her life will be held on February 19, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1591 Gadsden Highway, Birmingham, AL 35235. A Celebration of Life will follow from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, as we gather to remember and celebrate the incredible woman Sandi was.
Though Sandi may no longer be with us in body, her spirit, her love, and her unwavering faith will forever guide us. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her, but we take comfort in knowing that she is now in the embrace of our savior, Jesus, and her love will continue to shine through the lives she touched.
