Elmer Jean Smith, lovingly known as "Jean" to her family and affectionately called "Ms. Elmer" by neighbors and friends, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born on December 12, 1934, to Lillian Montgomery Traylor and Cranford Traylor in Dangerfield, Texas, she started her formative education and love for learning. Jean graduated as Salutatorian from Booker T. Washington High School in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. She was far from done. Jean moved to Dallas, Texas, and furthered her education in the field of nursing, where she truly found her happy place. On February 14th, Jean married the love of her life, Landy LaSalle Smith. Together, they built a family rooted in love, faith, and service. Still not done yet, Jean had a yearning to take a deeper dive into God's word and completed eight years of biblical studies at Southern Bible Institute, where she received a degree in Biblical Studies. Jean was a beacon of care, comfort, and faith throughout her entire life.

A nurse by profession for over 50 years, she did not retire until the age of 80. Research shows that Ms. Elmer (the name called in her profession) was the first African-American nurse to break the racial barrier by serving in a white doctor's office in Dallas, Texas—she was a true trailblazer. Jean was known for her deep compassion and healing hands. She cared for others far beyond the hospital/private practice setting, offering comfort, advice, and hands-on nursing care to her extended family, neighbors, church community, and countless friends. Her gentle spirit and generosity of heart earned her the respect and affection of all who knew her.

Being a devoted student of the Bible, she never missed an opportunity to share her knowledge and faith with those around her. She was blessed to be an instructor in the National Baptist Convention of America, Inc. for over ten years. She was a member of the Dallas-Fort Worth area Field Missionary Council since its inception. Her words, filled with wisdom and grounded in Scripture, uplifted many and reflected the character and love of God she so faithfully served.

In addition to her roles as caregiver and spiritual guide, Jean had a vibrant love for sports. Whether it was football, basketball, or track and field, she was an enthusiastic fan—always ready to cheer on athletes of all levels, from children's teams to junior high, high school, college, and professional games. Her passionate support and joyful presence in the stands were known and appreciated by many.

Elmer Jean Smith's life was a powerful testament to love in action. She will be remembered for her nurturing heart, steadfast faith, and the vibrant energy she brought to everything she touched. Her legacy lives on in the lives she healed, the wisdom she shared, and the love she so freely gave.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Landy; her parents; and several beloved siblings: Helen Traylor Armstead, C.T. Traylor, Melvin Traylor, and her brothers J.T. Traylor and Roy Traylor.

Jean is survived by her devoted daughters, Gwendolyn Kaye Grant, Glennis Lynette Smith Newton (Paul), Gerilynn (Gee) Dickson, as well as her bonus daughter, Joyce Elaine Wilson; her cherished granddaughters, Erica Welch (Christopher) and Afton Nichelle Newton; her adoring great granddaughter, London Allen, who lovingly called her "Nana," and two great-grandsons, Jacob and Chadwick Welch. She also leaves behind her beloved sisters, Evelyn O. Traylor Thomas (Van), Annie Traylor Briscoe, Earnestine Traylor Gladney, Ruby Traylor Baker, and Carolyn Traylor; her brother Curtis Traylor; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives were deeply touched by her presence.