Bernice Bankston Smith

Bernice Bankston Smith, 95, of Athens, Georgia, passed away on May 7, 2020.

A native of Jasper, Alabama, Mrs. Smith was the daughter of the late John Wesley and Betty Gay Bankston. She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 67 years, WC Smith, eight siblings, five sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law, and daughter-in-law Mary Elaine Smith.

Survivors include three children - Wayne (Cheryl) Smith, Gay (Rick) Boswell, and Wesley (Cheryl) Smith, eight grandchildren - Kelley Smith, Michael (Jessica) Smith, Chris (Erica) Boswell, Brandon (Laura) Boswell, Kimberly (Alan) Wooten, Alex Smith, Adam Smith, and Eric Smith, nine great-grandchildren, brother-in-law Harry Garnett Smith, and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Smith was a devoted Christian and longtime member of Tuckston United Methodist Church. She was also a faithful member of the United Methodist Women and the Co-Workers Class. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who embodied the Word and loved her family. Grandma Bernice always had a smile and back rub ready for her grandchildren.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff of Morningside of Athens and Homestead Hospice for their loving care and genuine concern for Mrs. Smith.

A memorial will be announced at a later date. Lord and Stephens East is in charge of the arrangements.