Nettie Mae Caesar

Nettie Mae Caesar (nee Smiley) was born in Birmingham, Alabama to William and Ada Smiley on May 11, 1928. Following a family tradition, she was named after her maternal grandmother Nettie M. Givens. One of seven siblings, Nettie accepted Christ at an early age, was active in church and excelled in school. Upon graduation from high school, Nettie moved to San Francisco to live with her beloved “Aunt BeeDee.” 

After moving to San Francisco, Nettie married Richard Caesar, where together they raised Robert Lee Prince, their only son. They assumed responsibility for their niece- Shelia Pompey, niece- Roberta Michelle Hunter, and goddaughter, Yvonne Denise Campbell. Throughout the years, the couple cultivated a loving home where everyone was welcome full of family, laughter, and love. 

Nettie worked at Letterman Hospital in San Francisco, where, as a testament to her intelligence and work ethic, she rose through the ranks from kitchen staff to dietician. After leaving Letterman Hospital, she supported her husband's construction business as office manager and bookkeeper. 

Nettie was the ultimate homemaker and hostess. The very definition of feminine elegance- Nettie was a Godly woman, a true Proverbs 31 Woman, a Lady in word and deed. She enjoyed entertaining, sewing, and empowering her community. She was a proud Eastern Star and member of Thutmose Court #59, where she served as Worthy Matron, Illustrious Commandress, Secretary and other offices. She was an advocate for her community and spoke often in favor of a living wage for San Franciscans. Nettie was also a founding member of St. Andrew’s Missionary Baptist Church of San Francisco, where she graciously served on the Usher Board and other ministries for over 50 years. 

Nettie enjoyed traveling with family and friends- among her favorite vacations were the Holy Land, Jerusalem Israel, London England, Hawaii, and cruising to the Bahamas. 

Both her husband, Richard, and son, Robert, have predeceased Nettie. Among the many who continue to celebrate her life and legacy include her only grandson Robert L. Prince and his wife, Loren, granddaughters, Samara Atkins and Imani Campbell Dunn, her great-granddaughter Faith, her best friend for life- Rose Hardy; beloved nephews, nieces, cousins that are too numerous to name and the friends she made everywhere she went.

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