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Doris Vella Palmer Smith 
February 5, 1929 - February 20, 2008

Mississippi Federation lost one of their long serving federation members, Doris Vella Palmer Smith.  She was a founding member of both the state and county federations.  She was truly a pioneer, a long time civil rights advocate, a teacher, the 1st woman on city council in the capital city of Jackson.  The following are excerpts from her obituary:

Doris Vella Palmer Smith was born in Clinton, MS, to the late Archie & Lucinda Palmer on February 5, 1929, the oldest of twin girls that lived inseparable lives.  She was the 11th of 13 children.

Being concerned for others and her community more than herself, she pinned these words: "Here is my life Lord, take it! Sometimes I look at Calvary and I see the priceless values you have placed on me.  Here's my life Lord, thrill me with your love, that I may serve everyone as you loved me.  Here's my life Lord, help me to use my talent helping everyone I meet, the community in its entirety."

Mrs. Smith always had a continuous mission to make a difference in the African American community in Mississippi.  In this effort, she accepted the call to serve on the board of the Mississippi Sickle Cell Foundation since its inception in 1996.  As a founding board member, she has been a great advisor to the Foundation and its parent patient support group.

Mrs Smith was the first women to receive a Master of Science in Education Administration from Jackson State University.  Further, she attended workshops across the country, to improve her knowledge and skills in teaching the youth and the under served in her community.

Mrs. Smith has also served in her community through political channels, a few of her accomplishments are:

    * She was the first Black woman to be elected to serve on the Jackson City Council
    * She was precinct manager for 15 years
    * She was a founding member of the Jackson Urban League
    * She has served on more than twenty boards and commissions
    * She served as President of the Jackson Chapter of the NAACP for twelve years
    * She was member of the National Council of Negro Women, the AARP, NAACP, and the
       Jackson State University Alumni Association

Mrs. Smith has touched the lives of many individuals in her church, community, and the Democratic Party.  She has succeeded in the terrains of education, commitment and mentorship.  She will be dearly and sorely missed.

- Dr. Corinne Anderson