Deaconess Evelyn (Smith) Gilliam

God visited Doctors Community Hospital in Lanham, Maryland on March 10, 2021 shortly before noon to escort our cherished Evelyn to her heavenly home. Although her family and loved ones surrounded her bedside to share love and hope for a longer stay, God in His infinite wisdom picked His flower and gave her sweet rest. In just sixty years, she had touched the lives of so many as a wife, mother, sister, aunt, godmother, cousin and friend. And then God said, “Come unto me….and I will give you rest.”

Evelyn Denise Smith was the tenth child and youngest girl born to Leroy and Effie White Smith on October 26, 1960. She was a happy baby with a contagious smile and an angelic quality that earned her the title of the “sweet one”.

Evelyn was a great babysitter and often took care of her nieces and nephews. She was doted on by her older siblings and willing to help them in any manner that she could. She had a quietness about her, but did not hesitate to let you know when you were wrong, hurtful or insensitive to others, She based her life on the principles learned in the God-fearing home where she was raised.

Evelyn attended Greensville County Schools, graduating with honors in 1978. She was an excellent student, especially great with numbers. She furthered her education by attending Virginia State University, where she graduated Cum Laude in 1982 with a degree in Accounting. She set a goal to earn her Certified Public Accounting (CPA) license and with great determination and studying hard achieved that goal in 1994.   

At an early age, Evelyn was baptized and joined Green Chapel #2 RZUA Church. After college and relocating to the DMV area, she united with the St. Matthews Baptist Church in 1984. Evelyn came with a desire to be all that God would have her to be and a willingness to work. She continued in that same spirit until her death. Evelyn attended and taught Sunday School and served on both the Scholarship Committee and Board of Christian Education. Evelyn was very concerned about the development of our young ladies into Christian women. She chaired the Young Ladies fellowship and was an advisor and helper to many young ladies. Evelyn also served on the Deaconess Ministry, the MMW Ushers Ministry , Womens’ Ministry and sang with the MMW Chorus. Evelyn loved her church and was kind and caring of others. She studied the Word to become a better disciple and always strived to do the right things to honor God with her choices.

In the third grade, Evelyn met the boy who would grow up to become her partner for life – Shelford Anthony Gilliam. Much like a fairy tale, their attraction grew throughout the years as their fondness became a lasting love that would be a shining example to family and friends. Even though they attended different colleges, they remained faithful to each other throughout the challenges of college life and being separated. On September 21, 1985, before God and a standing room only church, they were united in holy matrimony. God honored their union and blessed them with two wonderful sons – Shelford, Jr. (TJ) and Steven.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents – Leroy and Effie Smith and oldest sister, Dorothy Hall.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Gilliam's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family.  

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mrs. Evelyn Smith GIlliam.

We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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