Sheila Grady Smith

Sheila Grady Smith passed away on August 26, 2026 at 84 years of age. She was a beautiful soul whose kindness, strength, and joy touched everyone she met. She dedicated many years of faithful service as a patient registration tech at Charity Hospital, where she greeted each person with compassion and a smile.

A proud Southern University Jaguar, Sheila caried herself with grace, intelligence, and pride in all that she did.

She loved her family deeply and found joy in simple things—good music, good company, and a good laugh. When the music played, Sheila loved to dance.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary Smith; parents, Ernest Grady Jr. and Dorothy Grady; and sisters, Stephanie Glapion and Paulette Cyrus.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Arlene Breaux (Greg), Arlen Barnes (Molyssa); Camille Darby (Cornell), and Corey Barnes (Wanda); grandchildren, Lekisha Barnes, Michelle Bennett, Keith Hurst, Marlon Barnes, Carey Jordan (Danielle), Corey Jordan, Coby Jordan (Saria), Savon Wooten, Ciera Hammond, Kadrian Hammond, and Rakazia Barnes; and her brother, Ernest Grady III. She is also survived by twelve great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, family, and friends.

The services will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70124. The visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. until the service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Bishop Kevin Boyd, Sr.

Sheila lived a life of love, laughter, and kindness. Her smile could brighten any room, her heart could comfort any soul, and her love will live on in each of us forever. Though she has danced her way to eternal rest, her memory will continue to move to the rhythm of love in our hearts.

Well done, good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:23.