Mary Temple Smith

Mary was born May 23, 1941, in Bryan, TX, the daughter of Kirksey and Evelyn Chaddock Bennett. She married Gene Smith in Beeville, TX on September 2, 1961.

A proud graduate of A.C. Jones High School 1959. She earned her Bachelor Degree in Social Work from Howard Payne University in 1962 and a Masters Degree from Worden School of Social Work at Our Lady of the Lake University in 1969. She devoted her life to helping others through her work in social service. Her career was defined by compassion, strength, and advocacy for the most vulnerable. She worked tirelessly to support children, survivors of domestic violence, and families in crisis.

Outside of her professional life, she found joy in simple, meaningful pleasures. She was a published writer for the Sunday School Board of the SBC and wrote Sunday School material for youth for many years. She was an avid reader, a devoted San Antonio Spurs fan, and a passionate art collector. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family-especially her beloved grandchildren, who brought her endless pride and happiness.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mary is survived by her husband, Gene Smith of Springfield; son, Ed (Susan) Smith of Katy, TX daughter, Gracelyn (John) Roman of Springfield; three grandchildren, Bryce Roman, and Alexander and Rowan Smith; sisters, Suellen (Galen) Turner of Ruston, LA and Pamela (Bob) Young of Burton, TX; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral Ceremony: Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, IL 62703, with Pastor Mike Keppler officiating.

Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center following ceremonies.

Private family interment will be held in Texas at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to: American Cancer Society at cancer.org/dignitymemorial, or SouthTexas Children’s Home.