Bobbie Steel Smith

Bobbie “Bird” Steel Smith was born April 10, 1936 in Abbeville, Georgia to the late Howard and Carrie Smith. His family moved to Detroit in 1952. He attended Ferndale High School where he met Pervis Jackson, Henry Fambrough, William Henderson, George Dixon and Edgar Edwards. They formed what would later become the legendary SPINNERS.

The Spinners signed their first recording contract in 1960 with Tri-Phi Records which later merged with Motown Records. At Motown the Spinners had such hits as “That’s What Girls Are Made For, “Sweet Thing” , “Truly Yours” and “It’s a shame”.

In 1971, The Spinners signed with Atlantic Records where their career’s soared. Their most notable achievements were 14 gold records, 6 Grammy Award nominations, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and numerous keys to cities, proclamations and recognition in the Rhythm and Blues Society. They received humanitarian awards for their work with the Bib Brothers organization and The Spinners Scholarship Fund.

The Spinners have entertained American Presidents and foreign dignitaries all over the world.

Bobbie enjoyed his life in Florida with his dog Casper who he affectionately referred to as “his boy”, his collection of cars and family. He leaves to celebrate his life, his beloved wife of 33 years, Lorraine: his children Vanessa (Chris) Reina, Ronald Stevenson, Richard (Yvonne) White, Lamaur (Brandy) White; 1 sister Mary (Charles) Turner: 8 grandchildren Amanda, Montinae, Dontaye, Monte, Richard, Rashad, Randy (Priyanka) and Isaac: 2 great grandchildren, Geron and Ralaya. He was preceded in death by his son Mark and daughter Barbara: 3 sisters-in-law, Gwen Smith, Marion Cummins, and Dorothy Herring: A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bobbie cherished his relationships with fellow members of The Spinners, Henry Fambrough, John Edwards (retired), Charlton Washington, Jessie Peck and Marvin Taylor. The Spinners have always been there for Bobbie in good and bad times, he loved them all like family.