Ms. Evattie Harrison

Evattie Virginia Smith Harrison, affectionately known as “Evette”, was born on November 16, 1948, in Newark, New Jersey to the late William Thomas Smith and Catherine Morgan Sapp. Evette gained her wings on Monday, May 27, 2024, after a long battle with various illnesses.

Evette devoted her life to her four daughters, grandchildren, and family. She opened her heart and her home to anyone in need and never met a stranger.

Evette was the eldest daughter of nine siblings and enjoyed a colorful upbringing in Newark with her family. While working at a restaurant, Evette met her former husband and then moved to Columbia, South Carolina. To this union four beautiful daughters were born, Davette Harrison Rankin, Danita Harrison, Dakiema Harrison, and Dameka Harrison O’Neal.

Evette was a subservient and dedicated member of Word of God Church and Ministries in Columbia, South Carolina. She attended faithfully until she became homebound by illness.

Throughout the years Evette held many professional positions along with the titles of mother and wife. She was employed at the Crafts-Farrow State Hospital, Kroger Stores, and the United Food & Commercial Workers’ Union (UFCW). In retirement, her primary focus was to care for her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren.

Evette’s love of life, beautiful smile, and joyful laugh were palpable. Her unquestionable love for her family and her legacy are more than enough for any good life. Evette was a loving mother and homemaker. A remarkable cook and baker, she thoroughly enjoyed preparing meals for her family and friends. One could always depend on her for a delicious meal or delectable dessert. Her acceptance of everyone she ever met and refusal to judge or dismiss anyone endeared her to all. Our family’s love and appreciation for all that she was to us will never fade.

In addition to her parents, Evette was preceded in death by her stepmother, Wilma Smith; and several siblings. 

Evette leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughters, Davette (Albert) Rankin, Danita Harrison, Dakiema Hopkins, Dameka (Alco) O’Neal; eleven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; siblings, Glen (Catherine) Lucas, Deborah Crews, Robin (Walter) Daniels, Joan Parrish, and Anita (Lawrence) McCalla; bonus daughter, Stephanie (David) Sellars; and a host of relatives, friends, and family.

Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

-John 14:27 NIV

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