Mrs. Lomonica Smith

On October 8, 2025 at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina; God called our loved one, Lomonica McKinnis Smith, home from labor to reward. Monica was born on May 17, 1969 in Chatom, Alabama, to Shirley McKinnis and the late Robert Lee McKinnis, Sr. Monica was a loving wife, daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, teacher, and friend whose life touched countless hearts. Monica was educated in the Washington County School System and graduated from Washington County High School. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Fayetteville State University May 8, 2010, where her passion for learning and helping others flourished. In high school, Monica was known for her talent, leadership, and joyful spirit. She served as captain of the girls’ basketball team, leading her teammates to numerous victories and area championships with her signature jump shot as point guard. She was also a cheerleader, two-time Baptist Training Union (BTU) Queen, and a frequent talent show winner, admired for both her energy and her heart. Teaching was not just Monica’s career — it was her calling. Her dedication to her students and her craft earned her the honor of being voted Teacher of the Year at C. Wayne Collier Elementary School 2018-2019 and Walker-Spivey Elementary School for both the 2024–2025 and 2025–2026 school years. Monica’s love for music began at an early age. She started singing in church at just six years old and went on to become the lead vocalist at King Chapel Baptist Church, where her voice became a cherished part of worship services. Some of her favorite songs to sing were “May the Works I’ve Done Speak for Me,” “Jesus Is a Rock in a Weary Land,” and “Sweeping Through the City.” Her music and faith remained guiding forces throughout her life. Monica was united in holy matrimony on May 27, 2004 to Darryl Smith. She was a faithful member of PowerHouse of Love and Faith for over 20 years where she submitted her gifts and talents as a licensed minister, intercessory prayer warrior, praise and worship leader, VBS teacher, financial officer, and choir member. Monica leaves to cherish her legacy and memories: husband, Darryl Smith of Fayetteville, NC; her beloved children, Devon McKinnis and Amia Smith both of Fayetteville, NC; her cherished grandson, Mars Campbell of Laurinburg, NC; her devoted mother, Shirley McKinnis of Chatom, AL; her siblings, Anthony Scruggs of Chatom, AL, Charlotte Scruggs of Huntsville, AL, Robert McKinnis (Danielle) of Dallas, TX, Veronica Chamberlain (Lee) of Anderson, IN, and Christi McKinnis of Lafayette, LA; her step-sisters, Hope McKinnis and Lois McKinnis; and her step-brother, Wayne McKinnis all of Chicago, IL — along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, colleagues, and former students who will forever cherish her memory. Monica will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her gift of song, her compassion as an educator, and the joy she brought to everyone she encountered. Truly, the works she has done speak for her.

Mrs. Lomonica Smith

May 17, 1969 - October 8, 2025