Ms. Wanda Kaye Smith

Sixty-seven years ago, a twin, Wanda Kaye Smith, was born to the late Mrs. Earnestine Smith and the late Mr. Cecil Smith on August 16, 1958, in Morton, Mississippi. Kaye was called home on March 14, 2026, at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. Kaye joined Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church at an early age under the leadership of the late Rev. Fred D. Chapman. She remained an active member of the choir until her health began to fail. Kaye received her education at Forest High School, where she graduated in 1977. She later attended Jackson State University, graduating in 1981, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. Kaye began her career at Forest Elementary School as a first-grade assistant, where she worked for several years. She later pursued a career at the Educational Training Institute, where she remained until her health declined. Although Kaye did not have any children of her own, she lovingly raised Terell Hayes and Kayla Miles as her own. Kaye was preceded in death by one sister, Sandra F. Smith; two brothers, Terry J. Smith and Cecil M. Smith; one nephew, Anthony L. Smith; and her aunts, Morline Batts and Edna Minor. Kaye leaves to forever cherish her memory a loving son, Terrell (Susie) Hayes of Forest, Mississippi; a loving and devoted niece, Kayla (Bryan) Miles of Byram, Mississippi; one brother, Ricky (Hollis) Smith of Forest, Mississippi; and a special uncle, James Batts of Cerritos, California. She also leaves to cherish her memory three nieces, Twila (Nadarrius) Clemons, Kiara (Jamie) Derrick, and Nadeja Finderson, all of Forest, Mississippi; four nephews, A.J. Smith, Jakolbi Smith, Nicholas Smith, and Terrell Burkes, all of Forest, Mississippi; and a host of great-nephews, Martez Hayes, Nicholas Smith, Karson Smith, Legacy Derrick, and Kamari McCleod, all of Forest, Mississippi. In addition, she leaves behind two great-nieces, Madison Finderson of Forest, Mississippi, and a very special niece, Kailani Seales of Byram, Mississippi. She also leaves behind a special niece, Stephanie Braggs and nephew Clyde (Nickie) Taylor both of Forest, MS. She shared a special bond with her friends and cousins, including Emma Taylor, JoAnn Smith, Barbara Earby, and Darlean Spivey. Kaye also leaves to cherish her memories a host of relatives and friends.

Ms. Wanda Kaye Smith

August 16, 1958 - March 14, 2026