Janell Green Smith Midwife Charleston, SC Obituary, Cause of Death: The network of midwives is heartbroken by the loss of Dr. Janell Green Smith, CNM; she died during childbirth.

 The midwifery community alongside the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) is mourning the devastating loss of Dr. Janell Green Smith, CNM, who passed away following complications tied to childbirth. Dr. Smith was a respected midwife, educator, and advocate whose life and career exemplified the principles of compassionate, equitable, and evidence-based healthcare.

Her unwavering dedication to maternal health particularly for marginalized and underserved groups made her a guiding light in the midwifery field and inspired many healthcare professionals.

Throughout her career, Dr. Smith worked tirelessly to improve birthing outcomes, especially for those who have historically faced disparities in care. She championed patient-focused, respectful approaches and served as both a mentor and role model for future midwives.

Her research and clinical expertise, alongside her advocacy efforts, reflected her strong commitment not only to her patients but also to overarching reforms in maternal healthcare across the United States. Her passing signifies a deep loss for her family, friends, colleagues, and the numerous lives she touched through her dedication.

The loss of Dr. Smith represents a personal tragedy and serves as a compelling reminder of systemic issues in maternal health. The reality that a Black midwife and specialist in maternal health could lose her life during childbirth in the U.S. highlights the ongoing inequities faced by women of color.

Extensive research shows that Black women experience disproportionately higher rates of complications and maternal fatalities regardless of their educational background, economic status, or professional credentials, largely due to systemic racism and inequities in healthcare. The premature passing of Dr. Smith sadly emphasizes the urgent need for action to ensure that all mothers receive safe, respectful, and equitable care.

In honor of Dr. Smith, ACNM is reaffirming its commitment to tackling racial disparities in maternal health and improving accountability across healthcare systems.

The organization vows to work in close partnership with Black midwives, healthcare professionals, and communities to devise effective solutions, prevent future losses, and keep Dr. Smith's vision for equitable care alive in the field. Her life and contributions serve as a catalyst for action, encouraging midwives, healthcare workers, and policymakers to prioritize equity, justice, and safety within maternal healthcare.

ACNM extends its sincere condolences to Dr. Smith’s family, friends, and colleagues. Her dedication, scholarship, and advocacy leave a lasting legacy that will continue to influence midwifery practices, maternal health strategies, and the larger fight for racial justice within healthcare.