Willia Ann Whiffin was the seventh child born to Harry Delfield Smith, Sr. and Evelyn Price Smith on October 17, 1936.
Ann was a member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church and was a faithful servant throughout her lifetime to her church. She loved singing in the choir and prepared many meals for various events at the church. Ann was a graduate of Garnet High School and then went on to West Virginia State College where she obtained printing skills. She then became employed with Dawson Printing Company in St. Albans, WV. She later moved to Washington D.C. where she established a career with the Washington Post. It was there that she met Gordon D. (Chris) Whiffin and they married soon afterwards at Ann’s home church in Saint Albans, WV. Ann and Chris loved to travel and went to Nova Scotia, Canada, Mexico, to Chris’ homeland in England and throughout the United States. They both enjoyed cooking and entertaining friends and family. Upon her beloved husbands’ death in 1994 she returned to her hometown of Saint Albans.
Ann devoted her remaining years to the three loves of her life, the Lord, family and her church. Ann never met any strangers, she greeted everyone with a big smile and a cheerful hello. A tireless worker for the church, whether fundraising or in the kitchen cooking, she was at the church 6 to 7 days a week. In her later years she often assisted the church office, making coffee, answering phones, greeting visitors and folding bulletins. Ann never complained and always had a good word for everyone.
Ann will be remembered by her sister Evelyn “Corky” Cash of San Francisco, CA, Alice “Jewell” Awkard of Aston, PA, Roger Smith of Los Angeles, CA and Thomas G. Smith (Judith) of Dover, DE along with a host of nieces, nephews and close friends. In addition to her parents, Harry D. Smith, Sr. and Evelyn P. Smith, Ann was predeceased by her siblings, Harry D. Smith, Jr, Vernel H. Smith, Verna M. Smith, Edward M. Smith, Leonard E. Smith and Mary Louise “Pat” Perry.
In the early morning hours of October 16, 2026, Ann slipped peacefully into the welcoming arms of the Lord. Ann will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her but they are comforted knowing she is at peace and home with the Lord she loved.
The family would like to thank CAMC Memorial Vandalia Health, Centerwell Nursing, and Hubbard Hospice House for their personal care. A special thanks to Lyndon (nephew) and Lorrine (sister in law) for their loving care.
A tribute to the life of Willia will be 1:00 PM Tuesday October 27, 2026 at At. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in St Albans with Reverend Dr. Michael A. Poke Sr, officiating. friends may visit at the church 1 hour prior to the service.
