Kendall M Smith, Sr.

Kendall Maurice Smith Sr., son of the late Harry J. Smith and Irene L. Smith-Turner, was born July 19, 1950. Kendall attended Wilmington Public schools and graduated from Howard High School in 1968. Kendall earned Distributive Education (DE) Student of the Year which started his career at Diamond State Telephone Company as a Frame Attendant. While also in high school, Kendall played on numerous basketball teams at Christina Community Center where he also excelled at shooting pool and playing tennis. In addition, he played in the United Black Youth League for an undefeated Spartan basketball team.
Upon graduation, he continued his telecommunications career at Diamond State where he became an installation and repair technician. His career continued through AT&T, Lucent and Avaya where he retired in 2008 after 42 years in the industry. Kendall made many friends along the way and continued those relationships up to his passing.
He was united in holy matrimony with the late Michelle McKinney in 1970. From that union, they were blessed with three children, the late Charnelle L., Kenya C. and Kendall M. Smith Jr.
Kendall was truly dedicated to his siblings; providing leadership and support which he carried on in his own family. He spent quality time with his children and grandchildren by taking family trips to Maryland, Philadelphia, the zoo and even wrestling events at The Spectrum.
Kendall was affectionately known for his distinguished, genuine, warm smile, great sense of humor and an outstanding personality. He was known for his good heart and would do anything for anyone.
He was a faithful member of Tabernacle Full Gospel Baptist Church where he served. You would regularly see Kendall driving the van on Sunday or providing security watch.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harry J. Smith, his daughter Charnelle, and his brothers David and Charles Smith. He leaves behind to cherish his memories: his mother Irene L. Smith-Turner, daughter Kenya C., son Kendall M. Smith Jr. (Kristalyn), brothers Harry J., Anthony C. (Roberta), Ronald G. (Lolita), Kevin (Judy) and Duane L. Smith, grandchildren Tiki L., Kwame J., Kenyetta S., Kendall M. Smith III, Tanijah R. Freeman, Kennedy M. and Kai M. Smith, great grandchildren Nykesse A. Esdaile, Karon J., Cy’merra L., Surreel M. and Kwamere J. Smith and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and long time devoted friends.
Viewing will be held on Friday March 31, 2017 from 9-11 AM. Funeral service starting at 11AM at Mother UAME Church, 701 E. 5th St. Wilm.,DE. Burial, Gracelawn Memorial Park.