Elizabeth Ann "Liz" Smith, 72, of South Bend, passed away peacefully at East Lake Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Elkhart on May 07, 2024 at 9:50. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Liz had been courageously battling some ongoing health issues and had moved closer to be with her family. She was born on May 16, 1951 to the late Wade Joy and Alice Davis. Along with her parents and beloved husband Virgil Hooper, Liz is also preceded in death by her brothers Jerry Brooks and Anthony Tate and sisters Elnora Davis, Ernestine Ward and Betty Davis.

Surviving Liz are her sons Rashu A. (Courtney Taylor) Smith of South Bend and Vernon (Valerie) Smith of Chicago; daughter Angela L. Smith of Goshen; grandchildren Jovon and Nickolas Pippin, Krystal and Christopher Malone, Aramis, Vernisha and Vernon Smith, Jr. and Tyisha Bryant. Needless to say, Liz is also survived by a host of loving great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, extended family and good friends.

Of all of the things that Liz did throughout her life, her gift of "care" was her personal calling to others, especially children. In fact, Liz took care of soooooo many children throughout her life that her family joked that they're convinced that she raised most of Chicago. She worked many, many years in social services caring for children of every culture and background. But her benevolence didn't stop with kids, as many ill and needy adults benefited from Liz's kindness as well. She was also a licensed (and retired) cosmetologist too, so not only did she raise 'em, she helped 'em back on their feet again and then made 'em look good! She also proudly served as a Building President for the Chicago Housing Authority.

Liz was also a devout Christian lady who loved to visit and worship at different churches in the Chicagoland area. No doubt there was an abundance of churches there, and Liz preferred to visit different churches and meet new people as opposed to staying at "just" one church.

Liz loved and lived life to the fullest and served as the family "glue" that kept all of the warmth, goodness and tradition together and alive within her family. As of this day and hereafter, her children are set on maintaining their mom's traditions and wish for a unified family!

In accordance with Liz's wishes, cremation has taken place. However, the family is holding a celebration of everything "Liz" on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 4 pm until 10 pm at The Majestics on the River, 121 S. Niles, Avenue, South Bend.  Following the her life celebration, Liz will then return home to be with her family. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart have been assisting the family.

Please join Liz's family as they bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth.