Phyllis Davis Smith

Phyllis Davis Smith (née Brieling), age 95, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, in White Plains, Maryland. Born and raised in Washington, D.C. on April 5, 1930. She later moved to Waldorf, MD where she lived a long and fulfilling life as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend; dedicated to her family, community service, and a passion for quilting. Phyllis worked at the Cheltenham Naval Base, where she met the love of her life, Wayne Smith. Their marriage spanned 44 years until Wayne’s passing. She is lovingly remembered by her children: William (Deborah) Davis, John (Barbara) Davis, and Peggy Davis Coons. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Brian Coons; Gregory (Lori) Coons; Allison (Jeremy) Sellick; Kevin (Jane) Davis; Lauren Davis; and granddaughter-in-law Sarah Davis. Phyllis was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Andrew Coons, Jacob Coons, Hunter Coons, Lucy Cook, Heidi Cook, Connor Coons, Alexander Davis, Connor Sellick, Emmy Rose Sellick, Reid Davis, and Ellen Davis. She is also survived by her dear friend, Bonny Brock. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents Cleo Lewis Brieling and William Brieling; stepmother Maria Julia Brieling; sister Jacqueline Gearhart; husband Wayne R. Smith; and grandson Ryan Paul Davis. A gifted quilter with an eye for detail and a love for fabric artistry, Phyllis was an active member of several quilting communities throughout her life. She was a past member of the Patch Workers of La Plata and the Annapolis Quilt Guild and participated in a small quilting bee that brought together close friends who shared her passion. She used her expertise as a quilting judge at the St. Mary's County Fair for over two decades. Beyond quilting, Phyllis dedicated herself to civic engagement and volunteerism. She served as an election judge for 35 years and contributed more than four decades of service to the Charles County Fairgrounds’ arts and crafts building as well as the produce building. Her commitment extended to volunteering with the La Plata Lion’s Club and the local Bloodmobile. She also participated in water aerobics and swimming at Charles County Community College for 27 years. Phyllis also shared a strong bond with her husband through their joint involvement for over 50 years as charter members of the General William Smallwood Chapter of MOAA (Military Officers Association of America), reflecting their shared dedication to service.

Phyllis Davis Smith

April 5, 1930 - January 9, 2026