Nola Mae Smith-Phillips affectionately called "Squirt", was born October 13, 1942 in St. Louis, Missouri. After a courageous and lengthy battle with Alzheimer's, Nola died on July 24, 2020.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Theodore Smith, Sr. and Eva Virginia (nee Clay), two sisters, Gail Evelyn (George) McClellan and Dianna Lillian (Raymond) Logan, and one brother, William Theodore Smith, Jr.

Nola was the third of seven children and lived her life with a warm heart, an unselfish care and a free-spirited attitude. She was very family oriented, loyal and fun-loving with her friends and family. She positively impacted the lives of others through her educational, social and civic activities.

At a young age, Nola attended Bray Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, where she confessed a hope in Christ and was baptized. Nola graduated from East Saint Louis Senior High School. After high school, she attended Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville where she received her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Education.

She began her career in education as a teacher with East St. Louis School District #189 and later retired from the Los Angeles Unified School District, where she served as a teacher and assistant principal.

As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Nola was active in East St. Louis, Delta Delta Omega Chapter. Later she served in the Los Angeles, Alpha Gamma Omega Alumni Chapter, where she also actively supported the Panhellenic Council.

Squirt truly enjoyed life and could always be found having fun with family and friends. At any time, she would be found laughing, joking, playing games, and popping cards. She was just as comfortable with talking politics as she was arguing sports. She was just as ready to step out for a night on the town, or saddle up on a snow mobile. She loved traveling and was an avid reader. Squirt was a multi-faceted person that operated with a high-level of love and style.

She leaves to cherish her memory three siblings, Sonya Annette Smith, Jeffrey Clay (Kristi) Smith, Sr. and Angela Lori Smith-Brown and a host of loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.