There was a beautiful, gracious light that embodied the complete witness and embrace of the pure love of God. The name of this radiant light was Jennifer.
Jennifer Jane Smith (Robson) was born on April 11, 1950, in San Diego, California, the eleventh child of Mack and Darphelia Robson. Raised in the rural Otay neighborhood of Chula Vista, “Jenny” as she was affectionately called, developed a deep love for teaching the Word of God at a very young age.
In 1977, she was saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Ghost at Community House of Prayer Church of God in Christ under the leadership of the late Pastor O. B. Bennett. From that moment forward, Jennifer dedicated her life to serving the Lord with unwavering faith and commitment.
In her early years of ministry, she became a primary Sunday School teacher and founded a children’s Bible study known as “The Good News Club” at a community center in the Otay neighborhood where she was raised. Jennifer often expressed that her children were her first ministry. Her desire to raise them in a way that pleased the Lord extended beyond her home, as she became a spiritual mother to many young people throughout her life.
Jennifer was a faithful and devoted witness for Christ. Whether ministering at the VA Hospital, serving as a surrogate mother, friend, and counselor, or interceding in prayer, she consistently demonstrated the unconditional love and grace of God. Her life was a testimony of compassion, strength, and unwavering faith.
Her favorite scripture was Psalm 30:5: “For His anger endureth but a moment; in His favor is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” This scripture reflected how she lived—always trusting God for joy beyond every trial.
Jennifer passed away on March 25, 2026. She lived, loved, and served God wholeheartedly. Her presence was a blessing, her love was genuine, and her legacy will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. Though we will miss her deeply, we rejoice knowing her life was well-lived and pleasing to God.
Jennifer leaves to cherish her memory her four children; Alex Cartwright (Blanca), Darphelia Lowe, Thomas Smith Jr., and Moniqua Smith, her special daughter Evangelist Vera Bryant, her siblings; Shirley Robson, Elder Mark Robson, Joyce Deaner, and Helen Robson, along with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends
