Nina Smith was born January 23, 1930 in Rusk, Texas to Hosie Gossett and Marie Session Gossett. She attended local schools and was a graduate of Emmett Scott High School. She was a longtime member of New Generation Baptist Church.

She retired from Liberty Mutual Insurance and then worked for Texas Department of Human Services.

She leaves as survivors: Loving and devoted daughter Marcia Ford (Robert) . Grandson Keith Harrell, Sr.; one granddaughter Kellie Ford and one great grandson, Keith Harrell,Jr. (Chynese); one great granddaughter Kayln Harrell; three great great granddaughters and three nieces and a host of other loving relatives and lifelong friends