Smith, Azalee Davis

There was a beautiful sunrise when Azalee was born on September 16, 1940 in Pamplico, South Carolina. Through all the stages of her life: as a daughter, student, nurse, wife, mother and friend – she carried that light with her wherever she went and brought comfort and joy to those around her. Azalee was the loving, caring, dutiful and faithful daughter of Willie and Hearline Judge Davis. After attending Marion County Training School in Marion, SC, she pursued her passion for nursing, completing her Nursing Degree on July 17, 1971 in Jersey City, New Jersey. Azalee was respected and admired by everyone where she worked. She was hard working, dedicated and professional. While in High School in Marion, Azalee met her soul mate Henry Smith. These High School sweethearts married on January 8, 1956. Azalee was Henry’s “flower” for every season and he was her “baby.” Through 53 years of marriage, the love, laughter and unconditional and attentive care never stopped. To this union the love of both of their lives was born, Marsha Lynn Smith. Marsha never ceased thinking of opportunities to bring joy, happiness and unwavering support and care. Azalee saw her as the “wind beneath her wings.” God was at the center of Azalee’s life and she accepted Christ at an early age at Mill Branch A.M.E. Church. She was active in Mount Pisgah A.M.E. Church (New Jersey) serving as a Stewardess, and at her passing, she was a 15 year member of Mount Zion A.M.E. in Florence, SC and a member of the McAllister-Witherspoon Women’s Missionary Society. Azalee’s beliefs were lived out in many acts of kindness, and she was an Angel to many. She loved the Lord and recognized His goodness with her favorite words “praise the Lord.” She touched and blessed the lives of many. With her light shining, she visited and comforted the sick and their lives were changed by her love, encouragement, prayers, cards, calls and compassion. Family was more important to Azalee than anything. She moved to New Jersey and her goal was to share her blessings thus she relocated the family. She provided opportunities and new beginnings that have impacted generations. In her mind, there was no such thing as an in-law, only sisters and brothers. To know Azalee was to love her. Azalee was a fun-loving person whose joy and love of life were like a light which drew people to her. When Azalee entered the room the fun began, the laughter warmed hearts and her “story telling” bought heartfelt joy! Kind and gentle, Azalee had a positive approach to life, and she managed to ensure that everyone felt special, cared about and important. No one was a stranger to her and everyone was welcomed into her life and big heart. She opened up her homes, New Jersey real estate, pool, and yard for all to enter. People gravitated to her naturally, including Marsha’s New Jersey family, Marsha’s friend Veronica, and her manager, Edna Walls. They knew she was a confidante and buddy who would offer a safe haven. No matter what the problem, she would listen to them. During Azalee’s illness there were several things you could depend on: her spirit of “praise the Lord,” a good story and her impeccable attire, including matching shoes and lipstick. She was blessed to have her niece Debbie to share her days with, as well as Rosa Lee Riley. Azalee was unrelenting in her battle to live a meaningful life even in sickness …until God spoke. Missing her forever will be her family….husband, Henry and daughter, Marsha; sisters, Ella Mae (Carl) Cowherd-Sumter, SC and Joan (James) Davis – Pamplico, SC; brothers, Melvin (Kay) -West Virginia; John (Barbara) and Lawrence (Sofie) – Arizona, and Tony –Wyoming; brothers-in-law, Hamathia (Gale) – Jersey City, NJ; Douglas (Ann) -Willingburg, NJ; Roosevelt (Sandra) Williams – Lithonia, GA; sisters-in-law, Frances Miles – New York, NY, and Janice Johnson – Marion, SC; honoring her beautiful life are many nieces, nephews, cousins, “other adopted families” and friends. Brothers, Cleveland and James Davis and loyal “Corona”, preceded her in transition. However, awaiting her with joyfulness around God’s throne will be her parents and her Aunt Rosa Towe, for they were special gifts to each other who made life meaningful. The sun that was Azalee may have set, but her light lives on in our hearts. However, awaiting her with joyfulness around God’s throne will be her parents and her Aunt Rosa, for they were special gifts to each other who made life meaningful.