Gloria Cruse Smith

Smith ~ Gloria Yvette Cruse Smith entered eternal, quiet rest with the Lord on September 20, 2026, at Coffee Regional Medical Center in Douglas, Georgia. She was born February 7, 1947, to the late Walter E. Cruse and Sarah Y. Cruse. Gloria grew up in College Garden and was educated in Jacksonville, Florida, graduating from Stanton High School, Class of 1964, and continuing her academic journey at Edward Waters College.

She was a member of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church for over fifty years and served the Lord as a dedicated member of the Usher Board Ministry until her health began to decline. Beyond her service to the church, Gloria poured an abundance of love into her family. She expressed her care and affection through her remarkable talents in the kitchen, bringing everyone together by cooking the family’s favorite dishes. Her meals reflected her generous heart, creating lasting memories around the family table.

Throughout her life, Gloria walked with quiet strength, a warm smile, and a bubbly laugh. Today, we comfort our hearts knowing she is fully healed and safely resting in the arms of her Savior. She was preceded in death by her son, Baby Boy Smith; siblings, Beverly (Albert) Jenkins, Shirley Peterson, Cedric Cruse, and Sandra Cruse; beloved niece, Bernadette Jenkins; nephew, Primus “P.J.” Peterson. Gloria’s warmth, gentle spirit, and deep love for her family will be forever carried in our hearts. Her memory will be especially cherished by her special niece/daughter and dedicated caregiver, Wynetta (Lamont) Bolder. She is also survived by her loving brothers, Ronald (Debra) Cruse and Lamar (Felicia) Cruse; sister-in-law, Lenelle Cruse; a circle of special nieces, Monica Cruse Nevels, Ameia Batten, Alexa Springer, Tangee Huger, and Helen James. Her legacy lives on through her special nephews, Carlos Chapman II, Michael Bazell Jr., Devin Jenkins, Jacory Bazell, Jeremiah Bazell, as well as her dependable family friend, Hubert Watson, along with a host of other beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7

Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of Gloria Cruse Smith, 11 AM Saturday, September 26, 2026, at The Soutel Chapel.   Visitation Saturday from 10 – 11 AM at The Soutel Chapel.  Interment in Restlawn Memorial Park North. Because of the love of her family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Dr, 904.924.9400. 

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