Rev. Cecil T. Smith II's Obituary
Pastor Cecil T. Smith II, 66, transitioned peacefully into eternal rest on January 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family and friends at his home in Garland, Texas. Born on August 17, 1958, in Marshall, Texas, to Pastor Cecil Smith Sr. and Bernice Brewster, Cecil was the second of their children and a devoted servant of God from an early age.
Raised in Dallas, Texas, Cecil accepted Christ at the age of 12 and was baptized at Union Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Terrell, Texas. A proud graduate of H. Grady Spruce High School in Pleasant Grove, Class of 1977, Cecil pursued higher education at El Centro Junior College, Richland Junior College, and the D. Edwin Johnson Bible Institute in Dallas. He later earned his Master of Theology from Southwestern University in Fort Worth, Texas.
Cecil dedicated 28 years to the City of Dallas Parks & Recreation Department as a Program Specialist, retiring in 2008. He was recognized for his dedication to community development, earning accolades such as Employee of the Year and being named the Top Community Specialist for Program Development at Fretz Recreation Center in 2004.
Cecil answered God’s call to ministry on December 30, 1990. Alongside his loving wife, Jacquelyn, whom he married in 1980, he co-founded Ebenezer Worship Center in 2004 with 12 core members. For over two decades, Pastor Smith faithfully led his congregation, embracing his mission to serve the community and spread the Word of God.
A man of many passions, Cecil enjoyed sports, refereeing, and welcoming strangers with open arms. His kindness, faith, and tireless devotion to others touched countless lives.
Cecil was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Smith Sr. and Bernice Brewster; two sisters, Carolyn Smith and Dayphine Brumsey; his beloved son, Cecil Smith III; and two nephews.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, cherished by his devoted wife of 45 years, Jacquelyn Smith of Garland, Texas; his children: Tiffani (Reynauld) Young of Rosenberg, Texas; Lashawndra Smith of Spring, Texas; and Christopher (Natasha) Smith of Keller, Texas. He is also survived by his siblings: Michael Smith of Ardmore, Oklahoma; Pamelar Walker of Plano, Texas; and Vanessa (Don) Terrell of Tyler, Texas; his adored grandchildren: Aloye and ZaQuavia Young; CeShaun, Fayth, and Cecil “Mike-Mike” IV Smith; DeDraylon Williams; and Christianique and Christa Smith. He was also a proud Godfather to Chelsea Parker, Darrell Hammond Jr., and Elijah Dorsey, as well as a beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to a host of family and loved ones.
Pastor Cecil T. Smith II’s life was a testament to unwavering faith, compassion, and service. His love for God and people will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
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