Helen Ruth Smith

Helen Ruth Smith, a beloved gospel singer, devoted mother, and cherished community member, transitioned on January 2, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on September 24, 1941, in Gaffney, South Carolina, Helen was the ninth of fourteen children born to the late Babylon and Malinda Palmer. She was preceded in death by her father, mother, brothers Clarence Palmer, Billy Dean Palmer, Tom Palmer, Babylon Palmer, June Palmer, Jessie Palmer, Jimmy Palmer, Dennis Palmer, Shirley Crosby, Vernelle Robinson, Elmer Cumberlander, Lilian Smith, and her husband, Silas Smith.

Helen’s early years were spent in Gaffney, where she attended public schools before marrying Silas Smith in 1961. From this union, she was blessed with a son, Silas Terrill Smith. In her youth, Helen confessed her love for Christ and became a devoted member of the True Holiness Church of the Living God in Gaffney, where her faith and passion for music began to blossom. In the early 1970s, Helen relocated to Washington, D.C., with her son, where she sought to share her love for God through her gift of singing. A passionate gospel music enthusiast, she became a well-known figure in the quartet circuit. In 1975, Helen joined the late Peggy Davis and the Gospel Warriors, later founding her own groups, including "Helen Smith and the Angels of Faith" and the "Down Home Country Sound" gospel choir. Through these groups, she touched countless lives, spreading joy and inspiration through music and faith. Helen's love for gospel music was matched only by her deep care for others. She devoted much of her time and energy to supporting local quartet groups and churches, helping them grow and thrive. She was a true servant of God, using her talents to uplift others and spread the message of hope and love. Outside of her musical career,

Helen was known for her many other gifts. A talented cook, she delighted family and friends with her full-course meals, cakes, and pies. As a seamstress, she crafted stylish garments for herself and others, always ensuring that her group members looked their best. Her creativity extended to her jewelry line, which she loved to share with friends and family, and her love of painting her nails in bold colors reflected her vibrant personality. Helen also had a passion for photography, capturing precious moments with loved ones, and enjoyed watching westerns and soap operas in her downtime. Helen’s warm heart, generous spirit, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her Sister Louise Thomas, her son, Silas Terrill Smith, daughter-n-law Kimberly Smith, three grandchildren Raven Smith, Silas Smith Jr. (wife) Ayana Smith , and Robin Smith, great grandchildren; Zaiden Peace, Don Peace, Reign Malone and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will forever cherish her memory. Helen Ruth Smith’s legacy of love, music, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

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Tuesday, January 28, 2025

First Baptist Church of Glenarden

3600 Brightseat Rd. Landover, MD

Visitation:  10:00 - 11:00 AM

Service:  11:00 AM

Interment:  Lincoln Memorial Cemetery

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