Mrs. Antonia Gadson-Smith was born on March 31, 1955, to Evelyn and Willie Kendrick. She was a native of Jacksonville, Florida, and the oldest of six children. Antonia attended local schools in the Duval County Public School System. She began her career in 1988 at Walmart on 103rd Street, where she was a dedicated employee for over 30 years.

After retiring from Walmart, Antonia was full of life and enjoyed spending time with her family, traveling, and volunteering with her church family. She never passed judgment and was always willing to help anyone in need, whether it was offering a ride or simply cooking a hot meal. Antonia was not only known for her affectionate smile but also for her famous greens and cakes.

Most people only fall in love once in a lifetime, but Antonia was blessed to fall in love twice when she married Harry Smith, a union that lasted over 20 years.

On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, Antonia completed her earthly assignment and received her heavenly wings.

She was preceded in death by her Parents, Evelyn and Willie Kendrick; Sister, Joyce Arnold; Grandmother, Annie Bell Arnold; Brother, Larry Kendrick; Husband, Joe Ben Gadson Sr.; and Son, Joe Ben Gadson Jr.

To forever cherish the memory of our amazing Antonia, she leaves behind her Husband, Harry Smith; Daughters, Monique Tarrant, Latessie Gadson, and Jasmine Gadson-Coley(Christopher); Sons, Clayton Gadson (Tonya) and Dorian Gadson; twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; Sister, Charlene Kendrick Kelly (Kevin); Brothers, Reginald and Clarence Kendrick; Godsons, Clifton and Kincaid Allen; Sisters-in-law, Ruby Jackson, Bertha Mae Emmanuel (Edwin), and Pearlie Mae Stephens (Bruce); Brothers-in-law, Larry Smith (Gloria) and Albert Smith; Special friends, Shirley Oliver, Linda Stewart, and Fannie Nell Allen; and a host of sorrowing family and friends.