Hattie Smith Obituary

Hattie L. Gholson Smith

Sep 23, 1930 - Nov 16, 2023

Sandusky

Hattie Louise Gholson Smith, 93, of Sandusky, went home to be with the Lord with her two daughters by her side Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, The Meadows of Osborne Park.

Hattie Louise was born Sept. 23, 1930, in Columbus, Mississippi, to Sam and Hattie Ash Brown.

In Hattie's early life, she moved to Ohio in her 20s where she met her husband, John. H. Smith, and in union, they raised 10 kids. Hattie not only had various jobs throughout her life, but she also was an entrepreneur. Hattie owned her own bank cleaning service. In addition, Hattie worked as a nurse aide, housekeeping supervisor, and cook at the Elyria boys group home for many years. Hattie also served on the Usher Board at Providence Baptist Church where she was a member, under the late Pastor Brown. Hattie loved singing solos and reading her Bible. Hattie's top music artists were Al Green, Aretha Franklin, and Tina Turner. Hattie's favorite prayer was Psalm 23, The Lord is my Shepherd, and favorite spiritual poem was Footprints in the Sand. Hattie was an avid traveler who enjoyed fishing in her spare time. Hattie was also a self-taught seamstress who often would make her children's clothes and create quilts from her children's old clothing. Hattie was well-known for her cooking and baking and she had many signature dishes. Hattie loved spending time with her family and friends and she cherished all her grandchildren.

Hattie is survived by her children, Vera Keys (Theodis) of Atlanta, Georgia, Verna Gholson of Colorado, Walter Gholson of Sandusky, Annie Will Balthazar of Mississippi, John H. Smith Jr. (Goldie) of Mississippi, William Smith (Beverly) of Akron, Micheal Smith of Sandusky, Lois Thomas (Joseph) of Colorado, and Marshelle Smith (Troy) of Sandusky; over 100 grandchildren including great- and great-great-grandchildren; several granddaughters and grandsons including Dorrelle (P.O.A), Darqueshia, Darnell, Dovontae, Chanel, Cherise, Mi, Michael Jr., Lumbrita, Lamont, Brandi, Corey, Jazmine, Jazlynn, Koron (Sarai), and John; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Hattie was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Earl Gholson and John H. Smith; daughter, Doris A. Smith; special grandson, Chianti Gholson; sister, Alberta; and brothers, Sam, AB, Rosevelt, Jack, William Sr. (Dubby), Sandy, and Issac.

Visitation for friends and family will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, until the time of Hattie's funeral at 1 p.m. at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 1215 Pierce Street, Sandusky, where the family will celebrate the life of Hattie L. Smith.

Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001, Columbus Ave., Sandusky, is handling arrangements. Condolences may be made to the family by visiting toftfuneralhome.com.