DEACONESS EMILY SMITH NASH

(January 9, 1926 –September 28, 2025)

MY STORY

Greeting!  I, Emily Smith Nash, was born in Scotland Neck, North Carolina at a time of Segregation and Jim Crow Laws. 

My Father, Claude Askew Smith decided to migrate to Flushing, NY where he found work as a skilled painter and handy man.   My  Mother Elizabeth and her two children joined MY Father in Flushing  and we later moved to Corona, NY where my brother and I received our early education.  Because of my love for clothing and fashion, I attended High School of Needle Trades, currently known as Fashion Institute of Technology.

Prior to taking the Civil Service Exam, I worked on several jobs including  days work as a Domestic Worker.  After passing the exam, I was employed by New York State Department of Labor Workers Compensation Board  and later  promoted to an administrative position with the New York State Division of Employment where I worked for over 35 years.

I received certificates and credits in Psychology, Management and courses in Training and Development at Manhattan Community College, Pace University and Interboro Institute. However, my greatest achievement was my membership and service at Ebenezer Baptist Church for over 60 years where I was actively involved in the Hostess Committee, Pastor’s Aide, Missionaries, Leader of the Women’s Day group and  Deaconess.  Also, my passion and gift of sewing enabled me to share these gifts to members of Ebenezer and to many of my friends and family members.

Unfortunately, due to health challenges, I was confined to the Pavilion Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility for several years. Therefore, I was unable to attend services at Ebenezer.

My parents, Elizabeth and Claude, my brother, Johnnie and my Grandson Gregory have all deceased.  However, I am blessed and grateful that I was able to live for over 99 years. By the Grace of God,  I have travelled extensively and enjoyed a rich and full life, and I am forever grateful for the love and blessings  I received from my Pastor Reverend  Carlton Mobley of Ebenezer Baptist Church; my beloved church family and friends; my devoted care givers, Elodia and Melva; the staff at Pavilion Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility, and especially to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Finally, I leave behind my beloved daughter, Reverend Carole Imani Parker; my great grandsons, Parker and Spencer Williams (currently serving in the United States Army; my  granddaughter in-law, Sheila, and my relatives and close friends. I thank each of you for sharing and enriching my life.

Physically I’m gone, but in your hearts and minds, I’ll live on…

Love and blessings to all.