Barbara Elaine Smith, known to the world as B. Smith, was a pioneering force who seamlessly navigated the worlds of fashion, food, and entrepreneurship. Born on August 24, 1949, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most recognizable and influential Black businesswomen in America. Her multifaceted career began in the modeling industry, where she broke barriers as one of the first Black models to achieve mainstream success. She graced the covers of major fashion magazines and became a muse to designers, establishing herself as a style icon during the 1970s. This early success in fashion laid the groundwork for a remarkable and unexpected pivot into the culinary and lifestyle world.

In 1986, Smith opened her first namesake restaurant, B. Smith's, in New York City's Theater District. The establishment was an immediate sensation, celebrated for its upscale Southern cuisine and elegant, welcoming atmosphere. It became a magnet for celebrities, politicians, and tourists alike, cementing her reputation as a savvy and innovative restaurateur. The restaurant's success led to a second location in Sag Harbor and a third in Washington, D.C., transforming her into a major player in the hospitality industry. Her unique blend of style, hospitality, and culinary flair made her a household name, and she capitalized on this fame by expanding her brand into a lifestyle empire.

Beyond the restaurant business, Smith became a trusted voice in the world of home and lifestyle. She authored several successful books, including "B. Smith's Entertaining and Cooking for Friends" and the acclaimed "B. Smith Cooks Southern-Style," which showcased her approachable yet sophisticated take on classic American cuisine. In 1999, she launched her nationally syndicated television program, B. Smith with Style, which aired for several years and further solidified her status as a lifestyle guru. Through her television show, cookbooks, and a line of home furnishings, she inspired countless viewers to embrace the art of entertaining with grace and confidence.

In her personal life, Smith was married to Dan Gasby, who became her business partner. In 2013, she publicly revealed her diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer's disease, a courageous disclosure that brought significant attention to the condition, particularly within the African American community. She and Gasby became vocal advocates for Alzheimer's research and caregiving, sharing their journey in the book "Before I Forget" to help other families facing similar challenges. Her advocacy work in her final years added a new and deeply personal chapter to her legacy, demonstrating the same strength and dignity that had defined her entire career. B. Smith passed away on February 22, 2020, but her impact as a trailblazer in business, media, and advocacy continues to inspire. She is remembered not only for her elegance and entrepreneurial spirit but also for her profound courage in the face of adversity.