House Resolution 116

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE LIFE, LEGACY AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF MRS. BERTHA H. SMITH AND EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HER PASSING.

WHEREAS, Mrs. Bertha Hutchins Smith, affectionately known as Mother Smith, departed this earthy life on September 14, 2006, at the age of 99, to enter into eternal rest, causing great sorrow and loss to her family and many friends; and

WHEREAS, Mother Smith was born on October 24, 1906, in Natchez, Mississippi, to her loving parents, Lavinia Miller and Jerry Hutchins; and

WHEREAS, reared with love, Mother Smith received her education in Adams County, and due to her staunch work ethic, she was employed as a domestic worker until she retired; and

WHEREAS, Mother Smith, a born-again Christian, confessed and accepted Christ as her personal Savior in 1920 under the leadership of Reverend Sims; and

WHEREAS, baptized at Morning Star Baptist Church where she was a faithful member of the Mother's Board until her health failed, Mother Smith served as a role model for both the young and the old of the congregation; and

WHEREAS, Mother Smith was married to the late Andrew Smith, Sr., and to this holy union the following eight children were born: Hannah, Willie and Clarence, the late Andrew, Bertha and Henry and infants Willie B. and Martha; and

WHEREAS, always the source of unwavering strength and encouragement, Mother Smith was known to have a kind word and to help anyone who was in need; and

WHEREAS, although Mother Smith has crossed the river of life to now stand on golden heavenly shores, the legacy of her memory will continue to live in the hearts of her survivors; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to commend the life of such an inspiring and caring individual as Mrs. Bertha Hutchins Smith whose life was a beacon of light, strength and love:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend the life and legacy of Mrs. Bertha H. Smith and express deepest sympathy to her family and friends upon her passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mrs. Bertha Hutchins Smith and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.