Fernella Joseph Smith went home to her Lord and Savior on February 14th 2019 at the age of 89 years old. Beloved wife of Charles. Loving mother to Charles Jr., Cheryl, Claire, Christopher and Cornelius. Treasured grandmother to Terrence, Daniel, Ayana, and Julian. Survived by her siblings Joan, Cynthia, Valerie, Clarvis, Ernest, and Jennifer as well as an abundance of godchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends; too numerous to count but always beloved in her heart.
Fernella was one of 9 children raised by Hercules and Iris Joseph to love Jesus, embrace education, and work diligently in whatever career path chosen. While in Antigua, she pursued her love of education and graduated from The Spring Gardens Teachers Training College. There she grew to become a respected teacher until she bravely embarked on her personal odyssey which took her to the distant shores of the United States of America. Fernella embraced America, met her husband Charles, and began planting the seeds of her family within New York. Fernella recognized early on that opportunity within the U.S. was more abundant than in her native Antigua and explored various career options; ultimately, she settled on public service to the city of New York, Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). Fernella retired from the city after decades of faithful public service.
In her spare time, Fernella cultivated her love of stained glass and horticulture. Many days were spent planting at home and with seniors at the Queens Botanical Gardens creating memories and a multitude of friends. In retirement, she took great pleasure from the company of her grandchildren and extended family. She strove to share her core values and experiences learned throughout her life with the hope that she could influence positive virtues, work ethic, and strong character in the many people whose lives she touched. Fernella will be missed dearly.
Friends and family who wish to pay their respects can do so on March 1, 2019 at:
Fredericks Funeral Home
192-15 Northern Boulevard
Flushing, N.Y. 11358
(718) 357-6100
Visitation: (2:00PM - 5:00PM with a service between 7:00PM - 9:00PM)
Private interment on March 2nd, 2019 at Maple Grove Cemetery.
Please click below the word donations to view Fernella's video tribute:
DONATIONS
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18