Elvira Smith Tyler

Elvira Smith Tyler was born on Feb. 25, 1951, in Monticello to the union of Ira Smith Sr. and Oeverda Smith. She was the seventh born of eight children from this union. Elvira departed this very fruitful life on March 31, 2026, at her children’s residence in Monticello. A service was held on April 15 at Friendship M.B. Church in Monticello.

In addition to her parents, Elvira was preceded in death by her daughter, Linda Tyler, and siblings, Alene Frelix, Lawrence Smith, Charles Smith, Ira Smith Jr., and Clarence Smith.

Elvira accepted Christ at an early age and united with Friendship M.B. Church. After getting married and raising a family, she joined Mount Pleasant M.B. Church. Later, she returned to Friendship M.B. Church under the leadership of Rev. Henry. After his passing, Rev. David E. Collins became pastor. After his passing, Elvira remained a faithful member of Friendship M.B. Church until her passing under the leadership of Pastor Langston.

Elvira was married for many years to the father of her children, Romie (Billy). They were the proud parents of four children, Linda, Billy, Pamela, and Bobbie–the apple of any parent’s eye.

Elvira worked at Kellwood Garment Factory for many years until the plant closed. There, she worked very hard to provide for herself, four children, and two grandchildren. God did provide. Elvira loved spending time with family.

She enjoyed shopping online and off. Some of her favorite stores to shop in person where Ross and Cato. Online her favorites were Jessica London, Amazon, and Brylane Home. She loved pretty things for her home. She was also a fancy dresser. Pretty things should have been her middle name.

Elvira had a best friend, partner, and soulmate, David Sanders. He helped to raise her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He continues to be an integral part of this family. To God be the glory for the things he has done.

Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her memories are David Sanders; her children, Billie (Fremon Kirksey Jr.), Pamela, and Bobby (Gianna Tyler); grandchildren, Nikki Tyler, Patricia Tyler, Craig Tyler (Trina Tyler), Whitney Broomfield (David Broomfield), Bryanna Tyler, JeDerrick Haynes, Malik Kirksey, Tyran Jackson, BJ Martin, A’Marie Tyler; great-grandchildren, Perez Tyler, Patrice Tyler, Nylah Tyler, Amiyah Garry, Ca’Riyah Tyler, Amari Abraham, Braylin Vanderson, Naomi Slocum; and great-great-grandchild, Paige Tyler. Elvira also leaves to mourn her passing and celebrate her memories to her brother, Willie Earl (Lee Etta Smith), and sister, Linda Rhodes. She also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, and neighbors. Elvira also leaves behind her church family and a host of other relatives and friends.