Edna Mae Smith, 100, of Cullman, Alabama, passed away on February 24, 2026. Born May 13, 1925, in Alabama, Edna was an adventurous, beloved, and cherished woman whose life was marked by compassionate faith, devoted love, and a gentle, steady strength. She will be remembered as hard-working and honest, humorous and inspirational, kind-hearted and loyal, patient and resilient, selfless and thoughtful—truly wise in the quiet ways that matter most.
Edna was the daughter of Thomas Jackson and Martha Matilda Weathers Wisner, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Arnold Wisner, Willie Wisner Lee, Ambus J Wisner, Willis Wisner, Virna Wisner, and Rachel Mary Wisner.
In 1943, during World War II, Edna married her first husband, Arthur Burks, who also preceded her in death. Together they welcomed their only child in 1950, a son, Jeff Burks, who remained her pride and joy. Edna was a devoted housewife and mother, a generous and gentle presence in her home, and a steadfast member of Boyles Baptist Church. She served as Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star, reflecting her faithful commitment and thoughtful leadership. After the Arthur’s passing, she later married her second husband, Arlin Smith, who also preceded her in death, and moved to Jacksonville, Florida. There, she worked as a cook and became affectionately known as “the biscuit lady,” a title that captured both her skill and her warm, giving nature.
A farmer’s daughter, she was baptized in a creek—an early reflection of the faithful spirit that remained central throughout her life. Edna’s love for the Lord shaped her days and her relationships. She was a founding member of Temple Baptist Church and poured herself into the life of the church with a loyal, selfless heart. She loved choirs and sang in many, including Sacred Harp, and most recently sang as an alto in a senior choir. She was also involved in youth ministries at Boyles Baptist Church, offering encouragement with the same compassionate steadiness that defined her life.
An adventurous spirit accompanied Edna’s deep roots. She loved to travel and visited Israel, Europe, and Hawaii—experiences she treasured and carried with her as part of a life lived fully and gratefully.
Edna is survived by her son, Jeff Burks (Judy); her granddaughter, Rachel Fuchs (Bert); her grandson, T.J. Burks; and her great-grandchildren, Wolf and Anja Fuchs.
Those who knew Edna will remember not only her devoted and generous care for others, but also the simple, sincere question she so often asked—words that expressed her faith and her heartfelt concern for every soul she met: “Do you know my Lord and Savior Jesus? If not, I can help you. Do you have a church? If not, I recommend Temple Baptist.”
Visitation will be held at Temple Baptist Church, 30 Co Rd 1184, Cullman, AL 35057, US, on March 3, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
A celebration of life funeral service will be held at Temple Baptist Church, 30 Co Rd 1184, Cullman, AL 35057, US, on March 3, 2026, from 1 p.m.
Graveside services will be held at Jefferson Memorial Trussville, Al, 1591 Gadsden Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35235, US, on March 3, 2026.
To leave condolences for the Smith family visit mossservicefh.com.
Moss Service Funeral Home directing.
