LA HR148

Louisiana House of Representatives expresses condolences upon the death of Bessie D. Smith, a Shreveport native and community leader known as the "Mayor of Stoner Hill"

Retired educator and active member of Hopewell Baptist Church who served as director of new members and held leadership roles in numerous civic organizations including Citizens for Quality Education, Metropolitan Planning Commission, and Habitat for Humanity

Led community development efforts in the Stoner Hill neighborhood, including installing drainage systems, defining boundaries, and enhancing infrastructure block by block

Instrumental in establishing the C.E. Galloway Head Start Center and supported E.B. Williams Elementary Lab School, Valencia Community Center, and senior citizen rehabilitation programs

Honored with Bessie D. Smith Park named in her recognition; advocated for voter registration, youth programs, home rehabilitation, education, and community art