Delores Smith was born on September 7, 1953 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Oliver and Carrie (Rayford) Conner, Sr; she was one of 16 children born to this union. Delores was adopted and raised by the late Odell and Julett Conner. Both sets of parents, and six siblings, Melvin, Anthony, James, Gregory, Lavergne, and  Kevin Conner transitioned before her.

She completed her education in Chicago, Illinois. For over thirty years, she was employed as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Delores married Joseph Smith who preceded her in death. To this union, one child was born, Raymond Marcus Smith of Swansea, IL. Delores' greatest joy was being Raymond's mother. She always had his back! Delores relocated to East St. Louis, Illinois.

Her life was filled with adventure and challenges; but with the help of the Lord she conquered all. Delores loved reading books, especially the Bible, thrifty shopping, and playing Candy Crush on her phone. She had a comedic side that would literally have you laughing out loud. Delores loved the Lord and was committed to furthering the Kingdom of God. She joined House of Prayer Assembly under the leadership of Bishop David E. Tabb, Jr. where she served twenty plus years. She was ordained an elder in the Lord's church on October 25, 2009.

Delores was passionate about her call to serve humanity, and she did it without complaining or payment. It was not uncommon to find her visiting and caring for people in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private residences. Delores was a vital part of "The Team". She opened up her home to the homeless. She helped struggling single mothers with their children. She supported her Bishop, Pastor, and church family with the work assigned to their hands. Her message of hope to others was "Always forgive!" She will be missed by her House of Prayer Assembly Family.

On October 8, 2020, God answered the cry of his servant and carried her home to rest. She was telling her loved ones, "I am ready to go. I don't want to be here anymore." God is faithful and does answer prayer! She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved son, Raymond Smith; three beautiful grandchildren, Kenyah, Cyndiah, and Brayden Smith; nine siblings, Oliver, Sharon, Donnie, Denise, David, Eric, Jeffery, Deborah, Darryl Conner, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.