Alphonso Nathaniel Smith

Alphonso Nathaniel Smith was born August 28, 1962, in New York, New York to the late Ernestine Smith and William Wallace.

Alphonso was a self-employed contractor by trade. He received his GED and later relocated to Benton Harbor, MI, where he continued his contracting work.

Alphonso was a devout Muslim and heard a message that changed his life. He was then converted to the Pentecostal faith under the leadership of Pastor Philemon Reed and Lady Willie Mae Reed.  Alphonso later united with Rhema Word Ministry under the leadership of Bishop Leroy Lane.  Bro. Smith to pride in helping the youth of the church and was honored to serve in his appointed positions.

Alphonso enjoyed cooking and dressing well.  In 2011, Alphonso married the love of his life, the former Betty Shelby.

Alphonso departed this life on March 25, 2024, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, MI after battling a long illness.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Betty Smith; his children, Darnisha Robinson, and Terrell Crenshaw; six grandchildren, Micki, Mar’Sean and Messiah Robinson, Jayden, Trenton and Khiylan Crenshaw; four sisters, Vira Payne, Alice (Alvin) Bridgewater, Ella (Roy) Albert and Carolyn Smith; a special sister-in-law, Ella Wesby Coleman and a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, church family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Sylvester Smith and John Smith.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Robbins Brothers Funeral Home, Benton Harbor.