Sheila Ann Smith was born on February 12, 1949, to the late Elder John Lofton and Ruth Foulks-Lofton in Greensboro, North Carolina. She transitioned from this earthly life on January 11, 2026, at Beacon Place. She was the oldest of her siblings and was preceded in death by her parents.

Sheila graduated from James B. Dudley High School in Guilford County in 1967. During her time at Dudley, she was a member of the dance group and the cheerleading team. She continued her education at North Carolina A&T State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology. Her professional career spanned 30 years in both federal and state government service. She retired from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a Quality Assurance Auditor and also held positions with NASA and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), reflecting her diverse career and skill set.

Sheila was a member of Third Tabernacle Bethel (COGASOC) in Greensboro, North Carolina. She had a deep love for music and began singing at a young age as a member of the alto section. In her free time, she studied African and African American history and eagerly shared her knowledge and passion with everyone she encountered. She also loved sewing and making clothes, as well as cooking for family and friends—especially the elderly. Her generous spirit and commitment to giving back to her community did not go unnoticed.

Sheila leaves to cherish her loving memory her two sons, Kermit M. Smith (Tracey) of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Delano Smith of Greensboro, North Carolina; one sister, Sharon A. Lofton of Greensboro, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Demetria Goode of Greensboro, North Carolina, Tania Smith of Hackensack, New Jersey, and Kamran Smith of Charlotte, North Carolina; two great-grandchildren, Demetrius and Zamaya Harrington, both of Greensboro, North Carolina; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and loved ones.

A memorial service will be Sunday, February 8, 2026 in the Goldie Hargett Memorial Chapel, of Hargett Funeral Services 905 E. Market Street, Greensboro at 2:00 pm.