Florence Skordas

Mrs. Garnetta Smith Skordas, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was marked by resilience, faith, and love for family, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, in Annapolis, Maryland. She was 94 years old.

Born on February 28, 1931, in Baltimore, Maryland, Garnetta grew up during the Great Depression and left school after the eighth grade to help support her family. Her early sense of responsibility and dedication to others would become defining traits throughout her life.

Garnetta began her professional journey as a nurse’s aide in the Maternity Ward at Mercy Hospital. After marrying, she dedicated herself to raising her children and supporting her extended family from home. In a remarkable testament to her determination and lifelong commitment to growth, Garnetta returned to education later in life and proudly earned her GED in 1987 at the age of 56.

Following this achievement, she re-entered the workforce with the State of Maryland Income Tax Division. Through hard work and perseverance, she rose through the ranks to become a Supervisor—a role she held with pride until her retirement at age 74. She chose to retire so she could care for her beloved husband during his illness.

Garnetta’s life was deeply rooted in faith and community. A woman of strong Christian belief, she was an active member of Calvary United Methodist Church in Annapolis for over five decades. Her involvement with the church provided spiritual fulfillment and a close-knit community that enriched her life.

She also found joy in giving through simple yet heartfelt acts—especially through cooking and baking. Her pies, cakes, and cookies were not only family favorites but also cherished gifts shared with friends and neighbors. Garnetta was a proud member of the Ladies of the Elks and enjoyed reading avidly as well as watching classic vintage films. Yet above all else, it was time spent with family that brought her the greatest happiness.

Garnetta is survived by her loving daughter Stephanie O’Neill and her husband Donald of Annapolis; her son John Skordas and his wife Kim of Gambrills; grandchildren Charlie Stinchcomb and his wife Adrienne Schulman of San Diego, California; Tom O’Neill and his wife Teah of Wilmington, North Carolina; Jennifer Barrett and her husband Justin of Annapolis; Lauren Skordas of Gambrills; and Sarah Skordas of Elkridge. She also leaves behind seven great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of warmth and strength.

She was preceded in death by her parents Wilbur and Lillian Smith; siblings Lorraine Wooten, Doris Frye, Betty Jean Wingate, and Sonny Smith; her first husband Ammon Woolford II; second husband Jim Skordas; and son Thomas Ammon Woolford III.

Garnetta’s long life was one of quiet strength, unwavering devotion to those she loved, and steadfast faith. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.