Janell Green Smith Midwife Charleston, SC Obituary, Cause of Death: The community of midwives feels sorrow over the passing of Dr. Janell Green Smith, CNM; she passed away while giving birth.

 The midwifery sector and the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) are grieving the heartbreaking and tragic passing of Dr. Janell Green Smith, CNM, who died due to complications related to childbirth. Dr. Smith was an esteemed midwife, educator, and advocate whose life and professional journey represented the values of evidence-driven, compassionate, and equitable healthcare.

Her steadfast commitment to maternal health, especially for marginalized and underserved populations, established her as a beacon in midwifery and an inspiration for numerous healthcare workers.

During her career, Dr. Smith dedicated herself to enhancing outcomes for individuals giving birth, particularly for those historically affected by care disparities. She promoted patient-centered, respectful practices and acted as both a mentor and an exemplar for aspiring midwives.

Her research, clinical skills, and advocacy demonstrated a deep commitment not just to her patients, but also to the larger goal of reforming maternal healthcare in the United States. Her passing represents a profound loss for her family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives she impacted through her efforts.

Dr. Smith’s death signifies both a personal tragedy and a powerful reminder of systemic failures in maternal health. The fact that a Black midwife and maternal health specialist could die during childbirth in the United States emphasizes the ongoing inequities faced by Black women.

Years of research indicate that Black women—irrespective of their education, economic status, or professional qualifications—suffer from significantly higher rates of complications and maternal mortality due to systemic racism and disparities in medical care. The untimely loss of Dr. Smith tragically underscores the immediate necessity for action to guarantee safe, respectful, and equitable care for all mothers.

In memory of Dr. Smith, ACNM is reasserting its dedication to addressing racial disparities in maternal health and enhancing accountability throughout healthcare systems.

The organization promises to collaborate closely with Black midwives, clinicians, and communities to create effective solutions, avert future tragedies, and ensure that Dr. Smith's vision for equitable care continues to influence the field. Her life and contributions act as a call to action, motivating midwives, healthcare providers, and policymakers to focus on equity, justice, and safety in maternal healthcare.

To Dr. Smith's family, friends, and colleagues, ACNM offers its heartfelt condolences. Her commitment, scholarship, and advocacy create an enduring legacy that will keep shaping midwifery, maternal health approaches, and the broader struggle for racial justice in healthcare.