Dora Smith

BIOGRAPHY

Smith was born in Live Oak, Florida, on 15 June 1913, to parents Joe and Annie Williams. At some point, she got married and went on to have at least five children: Eddie Williams, Roosevelt Smith, Joseph Smith, Elouise Green, and Chalotta Johnson.

Smith was a devout Christian from an early age and remained faithful throughout her life. After relocating from Greenville, she joined the New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, where she was eventually honored with the title of “Mother of the Church.”

Smith passed away in Perry, Taylor County, Florida, USA, on 14 June 2024, at the age of 110 years, 365 days. She was survived by three sons, two daughters, 22 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren, and 105 great-great-grandchildren.

RECOGNITION

On 6 July 2020, the Taylor County Board of County Commissioners issued a proclamation congratulating Smith on celebrating her 107th birthday.

Upon her passing, Smith became the second validated supercentenarian to die 365 days after their final birthday and not celebrate their next one. The first one was Valentino Stella in 1997.

At the time of her passing, she was the second-oldest (known) living person in Florida, after Anna Natella.

Her age was verified by Stefan Maglov, and validated by LongeviQuest on 1 July 2024.

ATTRIBUTION

* Recognizing the 107th Birthday of Dora Smith – Taylor County Board of County Commissioners, 6 July 2020

* “Happy 110th Birthday…” – Eddie & Lisa Williams on Facebook, 15 June 2023

* “Mother Dora Smith” – Perry News-Herald, 21 June 2024

* “Smith, 110, remembered for her love, faith and hard work” – Perry News-Herald, 21 June 2024

GALLERY

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