Sharon Mary Smith

Sharon Mary Smith

September 30,1949 ~ May 7,2026

Sharon Mary Smith was born on September 30, 1949, in New Haven, Connecticut, to the late Margaret (Bailey) Smith and Edward Thornton Smith Jr. On May 7, 2026, after a brief illness, she peacefully answered her call to glory.

Sharon received her early education at St. Martin de Porres Catholic School through the eighth grade before entering the New Haven Public School system, where she graduated from James Hillhouse High School in 1967.

During her school years, Sharon began studying dance at the renowned Bowen Peters School of Dance. Her talent, discipline, and passion quickly elevated her from student to instructor, where she taught African, ballet, and jazz dance. Sharon danced professionally for 17 years and became a beloved and respected figure throughout the City of New Haven. Through her instruction and mentorship, she inspired generations of dancers, many of whom later established dance schools and programs of their own throughout the area.

Sharon’s interests and talents extended far beyond dance. She studied karate at Dynamic University of Self Defense under the renowned George Brumsey and took pride in every discipline she pursued. She was also a proud member of the International Chapter of the Eastern Stars, where she faithfully served as Youth Grand Marshal. Sharon had a deep love for motorcycles and became an honorary member of R4R Christian Motorcycle Ministry, receiving the Supporter of the Year Award in 2018.

Even during life’s most difficult moments, Sharon remained committed to serving others. One of the last organizations she officially joined was FaithActs for Education, where she volunteered her time facilitating phone banking calls, even while receiving medical treatments. Sharon was unwavering in her support of her children and family, encouraging every dream, talent, and aspiration they pursued.

Above all else, Sharon loved the Lord and made sure her children were rooted in faith from an early age. She dedicated her life to Christ after joining St. Mary’s U.F.W.B. Church in New Haven under the leadership of Pastor Martha Green. There, Sharon served faithfully on the Usher Board, Pastor’s Aide Ministry, and Choir, eventually becoming Senior Choir Director. Sharon believed deeply in the importance of worship, fellowship, and spiritual discipline. She rarely missed a service, and as a result, neither did her children. As a family, they attended Sunday School, morning worship, evening services, Bible study, revivals, rehearsals, shut-ins, and special services faithfully. If the church doors were open, Sharon was sure to walk through them.

Throughout her spiritual journey, Sharon later attended Agape Christian Center and Holiness Church of Jesus Christ, where she was ordained as an Evangelist. She ultimately became a faithful member of Mt. Calvary Revival Center, now known as Revival Church, where she served diligently on the Outreach Ministry, Choir, and Ministerial Board.

Sharon was preceded in death by the love of her life, Jasper Edwards; her parents, Margaret (Bailey) Smith and Edward T. Smith Jr.; her siblings Earl Bailey of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Daniel Smith of New Milford, Connecticut, and Cecelia Johnston (Ray) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; her granddaughter Kevonna Edwards; and her brother-in-law Wallace Frasier.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving siblings: Charlotte Smith Frasier of Hamden, Connecticut; Anthony Smith (Bertha) of Columbus, Georgia; and Laler Smith of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Sharon also leaves behind her beloved children: Edward Smith (Connie) of Stuttgart, Germany; Tanya Smith-Long (George) of New Haven, Connecticut; and Daniel Bland (Melonie) of Hamden, Connecticut; as well as her bonus children, Jamil Edwards of Atlanta, Georgia, and Kevin Edwards of New Haven, Connecticut.

She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Marquis Smith; Valerie McGowan (Timothy); Dionnie Edwards; Tyana McCain; Corinna Brand (Marcel); Janey Fenner Edwards; Brian Salters; and Ava Grace Bland; along with her two great-grandchildren, John and Lilly McGowan.

Sharon additionally leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, godchildren and dear friends who will forever cherish her love, wisdom, strength, and unwavering support.

Sharon’s legacy of faith, service, artistry, and love will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

A celebration of Sharon''s life will be held on Saturday May 16, 2026 at Revival Church 450 W. Todd Street, Hamden, CT at 11am. Viewing in Church from 10-11am. Condolences may expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.