Alexander Smith

Rev. Dr. Alexander Smith entered eternal rest on August 7, 2026. Born on February 20, 1951, in Harlem, New York, he was the beloved son of the late George Smith and Juanita Boatwright Smith.

Educated in the New York City public school system, Alexander felt a profound call to service early in life. At just 17 years old, during the height of the Vietnam War, his parents granted permission for him to enlist in the United States Army alongside his brother, George.

A courageous civil rights activist and champion of equality, Rev. Dr. Smith dedicated his life to the fight for justice. Working alongside prominent leaders including Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rev. Al Sharpton, Dick Gregory, Rev. Larry Fryer, and William Lambert, he stood firmly on the frontlines of history—most notably leading efforts to remove the Confederate flag in Georgia.

Alexander leaves behind a rich legacy of love, faith, and activism. He is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Debra King Mealing Smith; his daughter, Simone Monique Smith; two sons, Andre Smith of New York and Steven Mealing of California; four granddaughters, Kenya Ponder, Serenity Mealing, Kaylee Smith, and Kylee Smith; his mother-in-law, Lydia Ann Mealing; and three sisters-in-law, Theresa Price (Daryl) of Augusta, GA, India Putney of New York, and Sarah Tyler of New York. He also leaves behind a host of extended family, including loving aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by three children: Alexander King Smith, Aaron Joshua Smith, and Sharona Ponder Smith; as well as four siblings: Arlene Smith, George Smith, Claude Smith, and Jocelyn Smith.