Brenda Lee Smith-Fitzgerald

Brenda Lee Smith- Fitzgerald, 80, of Martinsville, Virginia, passed away on Friday, October 18, 2024, at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro, NC. Born on January 3, 1944, in Bassett, Virginia, she was the eldest of 14 children to the late Giles Marshall Smith and Hazel Louise Johnson Smith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Bryon Smith; daughter, Geneva Saunders; grandchildren Lydia Saunders; three great-grandchildren, Dayshaun Garnes, Seven Garnes, and Hope Garnes; and two brothers, Wilbert Smith and Ray Smith.

Brenda was a member of The Galilean House of Worship and previously belonged to Star of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, where she served as an usher, choir member, and co-chair of the kitchen group. She played a vital role in nurturing multiple generations in the community, helping to raise many children from six weeks old until they began school. Brenda had a passion for fresh flowers and kept her home beautifully decorated with them year-round. Renowned for her cooking, she cherished spending time with family. As a devoted grandmother, she was a source of wisdom and connection, offering unwavering support to each family member in their endeavors.

She is survived by her four children: Lawerence Smith, Karen Smith, Tammy Reynolds (Emmanuel), and Troy Smith (Lisa); 13 grandchildren: Crystal Smith, Ashley Smith, Bryson Smith, Claire Smith, ReDonna Reynolds, Shonda Reynolds, Joseph Reynolds, Shainett Manns, Lamar Smith, Janelle Saunders, Mya Davis, Jashar Davis, and Michael Davis; and 26 great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by six sisters: Annie Loper, Sarah Martin (Fred), Eunice Carter, Kay Page, Fran Preston, and Lisa Smith; five brothers: Gary Smith (Joyce), Dwight Smith, Elmer Smith (Doris), Phil Smith (Ruth), and Fred Smith; two sisters-in-law, Olinda Smith and Fannie Smith; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Star of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, with Bishop Michael Penn officiating. The family will welcome friends thirty minutes before the service. Burial will follow at Carver Memorial Gardens.

The family will also receive friends at 170 Westland Drive, Martinsville, Virginia 24112

Online condolences may be made at www.bassettfuneralservice.com. Bassett Funeral Service is assisting the Fitzgerald family.