Bessie May Smith

Bessie May Smith, of Upperco, Maryland, a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, at the age of 93. She was born on November 26, 1932.

Bessie will be remembered for the love she shared with her family and the special place she held in the hearts of all who knew her. Her family was her greatest joy, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved.

Bessie was the fifth of fourteen children born to Roy and Margaret Redifer. Survived by Donald Redifer, a younger brother and Shirley Gustaitis, a younger sister.

Bessie is survived by her three children: Cheryl Rill and her husband, Doug; Richard Smith; and Wayde Smith and his wife, Sue.

She is also survived by her five grandchildren, Michael Rill and his wife, Jennifer Rill; James Rill and his wife, Emily Rill; Matthew Peeling and Storm Smith.

Bessie had a very special love for her four great-grandchildren, Makenna Rill, Raelynn Rill, Cody Rill, and Danny Rill. They brought great joy to her life, and the memories and love she shared with them will remain in their hearts forever.

Bessie leaves behind a family who will deeply miss her but will forever cherish the memories she gave them. Her love, kindness, and devotion to her family will continue to live on through the generations.

Bessie loved to spend time with family, playing cards, visiting the beach, a special love for lighthouses, and spent years bowling in various leagues at Greenmount Bowl. She was also a Life Member of Upperco Volunteer Fire Company.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 28th 2026, at the Upperco Volunteer Fire Company carnival ground activities building from 2-5pm. Family and friends are invited to come together to remember and celebrate Bessie’s life and the many memories she created with those she loved.

She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Upperco Volunteer Fire Company or BridgingLife Dove House Hospice.