Hello friends and family,

There’s no easy way to ask for help—but today, we find ourselves in a place of deep need, holding onto faith, and trusting in God's sovereign plan one day at a time.

My name is Kristin Smith, and I have the honor of being (as she would say) the "Daughter-in-Love" to our beloved Debbie Smith, who passed away suddenly this week. She leaves behind two devoted children, Jochebed and Josiah, four precious grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends who loved her deeply.

Miss Debbie was just 65 years old—but a young and vibrant 65. She was still working full time, cooking every holiday meal, and lighting up every room she entered with her warmth, positivity, and love. Her passing came as a complete shock to all of us.

The exact cause of death is currently unknown.

As if the grief of losing her wasn't heavy enough, we were dealt another painful blow. Miss Debbie passed just three months short of the two-year requirement on her life insurance policy—resulting in a complete denial of benefits. Despite her best effort to establish a life insurance policy in place, her children will receive no assistance toward her burial or funeral costs. This unexpected financial burden has left us facing the full weight of her final arrangements on our own.

We are humbly asking for your support as we work to transport Miss Debbie’s body—currently in North Carolina—back to Baltimore, where she will be laid to rest beside her late husband, Joche and Josiah’s father, in the veteran’s cemetery.

Your donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward:

Funeral and burial expenses

Transportation of her body to Maryland

A proper and honorable memorial service celebrating her incredible life

There is no amount too small—every dollar and every prayer is deeply appreciated. On behalf of her children, grandchildren, and entire family, thank you for helping us give Miss Debbie the farewell she so beautifully deserves.

We are grieving an enormous loss, but we are also holding fast to God’s promise:

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens...

a time to weep and a time to laugh,

a time to mourn and a time to dance.”

—Ecclesiastes 3:1–4

Thank you for standing with us in this season of mourning, and for helping us honor Miss Debbie's life -- a life overflowing with joy, generousity, and love.

With all my heart,

Kristin Smith