Janet (Buckles) Smith

Janet Lane Buckles Smith was born on April 19, 1950 to the late Berkley and Bertha Buckles in Memphis, Tennessee. On November 24, 2023, Janet passed away at home on Friday morning, surrounded by her adoring children Samuel (II), Quincy, and Amber; as well as, her daughter-in-law Tara. The second oldest of four siblings, Janet graduated from Hamilton High in 1968. In 1972, she graduated from Memphis State University with a degree in business and as a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Janet moved to Connecticut in 1973 and would meet the love of her life a few years later. She married Samuel Earl Smith at her childhood home in Memphis, Tennessee, and they shared a loving marriage for 46 years in Connecticut. Janet would go on to be hired and work for 25 years as an insurance underwriter for the Hartford Insurance Company. She would also later work as an adjudicator with the Department of Labor for the State of Connecticut, retiring after 15 years of service. Less than a year into her retirement, she would become a doting grandmother to her grandson Trey and later, her granddaughter Claritie. Janet frequented the New Britain Senior Center where she enjoyed fitness classes, going on trips, attending parties, getting manicures, and chatting with friends over coffee. Janet was a faithful member of Spottswood African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church where her love and acceptance of her Lord and Savior, the clergy, and congregation kept her spiritually nourished. Janet is survived and will forever be missed and deeply loved by: her three children, Samuel Smith II and his wife Tara Givens Smith, Quincy Smith, and Amber Smith; all of New Britain, CT; her brother Berkley Buckles Jr. of Memphis, TN; two grandchildren, Samuel “Trey” Smith and Claritie Smith; four step-grandchildren, Cameron Arnold, Kaleb Arnold, Robin Arnold, and Tierra Givens and nine step-great grandchildren; as well as, a host of nieces, nephews, and in-laws. Janet was predeceased by her parents Mr. and Mrs. Buckles, her brother Jeffrey Buckles, and sister Jimmie Lois Burson all of Memphis, TN. Janet was a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend to many. Her generous and loving spirit will live forever in the hearts of her family members and all those privileged to have known her. Funeral services are Friday at 12 Noon at Spotswood AME Zion Church, 25 Crestwood Lane, New Britain, CT 06053. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, 120 Smalley Street New Britain, CT 06052. Calling hours are Friday at 11 AM until the time of the funeral service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Carlson Funeral Home, New Britain, is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share a memory or note of sympathy at www.carlsonfuneralhome.com

Janet (Buckles) Smith

April 19, 1950 - November 24, 2023

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Janet (Buckles) Smith

April 19, 1950 - November 24, 2023

365 Days of Grief Support

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