Jacqueline Smith-Stoudermire

Jacqueline Smith-Stoudermire, a beloved daughter, mother, and friend, peacefully completed her earthly journey on August 11, 2026. Her life began with a beautiful sunrise on July 22, 1956, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where she was born to her proud and devoted parents, Mingo and Clemmie Smith. 

Jacqueline Smith- Stoudermire was a trailblazer among the first employees at Dayton Correctional Institution. For 30 years, she dedicated herself to balancing authority with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of others. Officer Stoudermire was a dedicated correctional officer who served with strength, integrity, and compassion. She understood the importance of accountability while never losing sight of humanity in others. 

Jacqueline, or “Jackie,” as she was affectionately known by her friends and loved ones, spent many years sharing her beautiful voice through gospel music. She sang in various choirs throughout the years, including the Sisters in Christ Chorale. She loved music of all kinds, with some of her favorite artists being Fred Hammond, Yolanda Adams, Luther Vandross, and Prince, just to name a few. Music brought her joy and was a meaningful part of her life. Purple was, without a doubt, her favorite color—a beautiful detail that will always remind us of her. 💜

 Her love was unwavering and extended far beyond her two daughters. She was a mother figure to many, offering love, guidance, and support to those around her. Jackie had a special place in her heart for children and absolutely adored them. 

Jackie was strong, selfless, loving, and full of personality. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a sassy spirit that made her uniquely her own. She loved shopping, talking with people, and staying busy—she was truly a “busybody” who always had something going on. But above all, Jackie found her greatest joy in spending time with her daughters and beloved granddaughter. Her family was her heart, and the moments she shared with them were among her most treasured. 

She is survived by her two brothers, Hiawatha Smith and Harold Smith; her two wonderful daughters, Kearson Sanders (N’Gai Sanders) and Senecqua Hill; her granddaughter, Nadirah Sanders; her best friend, Diane Engle; her special nephew, JerMichael Hill; her special niece, Rochonda Hill; and a host of other special nieces, nephews, family members, and dear friends. She lived by the words, “I’ve had a wonderful, fulfilling life here on earth, and now I am spending my afterlife with God.”

 Her faith was beautifully reflected in these words: “I’d rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn’t than to live my life as if there is no God, only to die and find out there is.” 

Her unwavering faith in God brought her comfort, strength, and peace throughout her life. Now, we find comfort in knowing that she has gone home to be with the God she loved and trusted. 

Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 pm on August 28, 2026, at the Newcomer-NE Chapel, 3047 E. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, OH 43231. A memorial service will be held immediately following.