Mary M. Smith, age 93 of Iuka, passed away at her home on Thursday, February 22, 2024.
Mary was born on October 30, 1930, in Iuka the daughter of Gilbert and Lyda (Mulvaney) Cook. At a young age, Mary lost her father, and after her mother remarried, she was raised by her step-father David Woodward. She married F. Dwayne Smith on June 21, 1949, in Ogden, Utah and after spending 54 years united in marriage, he preceded her in death on
January 21, 2004.
Survivors include her children, Carol Starnes of Salem, Eric Smith and wife Lillian of Centralia, Rodney Smith and wife LuAnn of Dunmor, KY, Kevin Smith of Iuka, and Lisa Smith of Evansville, Indiana; 16 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; brother, Ronald Woodward of Iuka; sister, Clara Meyer and husband Bob of Iuka; and close friend and neighbor, Karen Burroughs.
She was preceded in death by her father; her mother and step-father; her husband; an infant son, Randall Wayne Smith; and a daughter-in-law, Susan Smith.
Mary was a devoted member of the Iuka General Baptist Church. She volunteered many hours at the church, often picking up kids for services. She worked as a seamstress for many years, with Brown Shoe Company, Miss Elaine’s, and Homemakers. After her retirement and well into her 80’s she took care of others, taking them to doctor’s appointments and providing care in their homes. At home, she enjoyed gardening and canning. Others always looked forward to receiving canned goods from her as Christmas gifts.
Funeral services for Mary M. Smith will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Iuka General Baptist Church in Iuka with Tracy Bennett and Ray Barnes officiating. Burial will follow at Iuka Cemetery in Iuka. There will be a time to visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Memorial contributions can be made to Wounded Warriors or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be received at the funeral home or the church. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.
