News Summary
Myra Dawn Parrish Smith, known as ‘Donnie,’ passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, leadership, and community service. Her contributions as an educator and leader were honored in Raleigh, North Carolina. Myra’s impactful life included her roles in education and community organizations, along with a commitment to her faith and family, showcasing her enduring influence.
Raleigh, North Carolina — Remembering Myra Dawn Parrish Smith: A Legacy of Love, Leadership, and Service
Myra Dawn Parrish Smith, affectionately known as “Donnie,” passed away on September 30, 2025, leaving behind a lasting legacy rooted in community service, education, and personal achievement. Her life was celebrated through memorial services held in Raleigh, North Carolina, recognizing her contributions as a dedicated family member, educator, community leader, and member of various organizations.
Early Life and Education
Myra was born in Madison Heights, Virginia, on January 24, 1945. She was raised primarily by her Aunt Sallie and Uncle Robert Davis. She was the daughter of Charlie Turner and Helen Mae Parrish.
Myra showed early promise, graduating as valedictorian of Central High School in Amherst County in 1963. During high school, she actively participated in school life, serving as Student Body President, basketball team manager, and Homecoming Queen.
Higher Education and Early Career
She pursued her college education at Virginia Union University, earning an A.B. in Sociology in 1967. During her time there, she received honors including being Alpha Sweetheart and Ms. Virginia Union Court. She also worked in the Office of the Dean of Students, gaining valuable experience.
Myra was initiated into the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in 1965, reflecting her commitment to service and sisterhood. She continued her educational journey at The Ohio State University, where she earned a Master’s in Social Work in 1969.
Her professional career began in Columbus, Ohio, working in adoption services. Later, she provided end-of-life counseling and bereavement support to families in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Career in Education and Community Involvement
In the late 1980s, Myra transitioned into education, serving in multiple roles including guidance counselor, assistant principal, and principal. She concluded her career at Durham Public Schools in 2006.
Myra was actively involved in her faith community as a member of Martin Street Baptist Church. Her roles included Ladies Auxiliary President and Bereavement Ministry Co-Chair.
Her love of reading led her to be a 30-year member of the Friday Night Women Book Club. She also contributed to her community through organizations like The Links, Incorporated (Raleigh Chapter) and served as president of Triangle Women in Golf (TWIG).
Family and Survivors
Myra is survived by her husband, Horace Smith, of Raleigh, NC; her daughters Cherie Smith Gibson (Mitchellville, MD), and Stacy Joy Smith (Raleigh, NC); her son, Christopher Horace Smith (Chicago, IL); and her granddaughter, Sarah Parrish Gibson.
Additional family members include her sister, Sherrill Davis of Madison Heights, Virginia, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Memorial Arrangements and Memorial Contributions
A public viewing was held from 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM on October 9, 2025, at Lea Funeral Home in Raleigh, NC. A wake occurred on the same day from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
The funeral service took place at 11:00 AM on October 10, 2025, at Martin Street Baptist Church in Raleigh, with visitation beforehand from 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM. Interment followed at Raleigh Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to be made to Virginia Union University Annual Fund, Johnston Health Foundation Hospice Fund, or Triangle Women in Golf Foundation.
Summary
Myra Dawn Parrish Smith’s life was marked by her dedication to service, education, and community involvement. Her legacy continues through her family, faith, and the numerous organizations she supported over her lifetime.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Ed Carbaugh Obituary
- Wikipedia: Myra Dawn Parrish Smith
- Geisel Funeral Home: James Raleigh Jr. Obituary
- Google Search: Myra Dawn Parrish Smith
- Bryan Lee Funeral Home: James Taylor Obituary
- Google Scholar: Myra Dawn Parrish Smith
- Dignity Memorial: Maureen McDermott Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myra Dawn Parrish Smith
- Randledable Funeral Home: Sinead Raleigh Obituary
- Google News: Myra Dawn Parrish Smith
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