Mabel Lou Smith, 92, passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024. She was born near Oxford, Mississippi on May 23, 1932, to Henry and Mabel Hill and graduated from Yokona High School, where she played basketball.
Mabel Lou moved to Memphis for work after graduation, where she met her future husband, Billy, at church. After a brief stint in the United States Airforce, the young couple settled in the Mid-South, where Billy worked for Wonder Bread Bakery for 20 years.
Lou was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Billy Smith and eight brothers and sisters. She is survived by a daughter, Debra Smith, a son, Chris Smith (Vicki), five grandchildren, Michelle Hubbard, Chad Hubbard, Ashley Harrell, (Randal) Andrea Hardison, (Matthew) and Matthew Smith, as well as nine great-grandchildren, Madison Barr, Mia Barr, Avery Hardison, Burton Hardison, Ann Hayes Hardison, Chip Harrell, Henry Harrell, Landon Hubbard, and Breanna Hubbard. She is also survived by her sister Nell Allen and brother Aaron Hill.
Lou enjoyed a 20-year career at Shelby County Juvenile Court and then a second 20-year career as a volunteer at St. Francis Hospital in Bartlett. Her volunteering only ended when health concerns made it impossible to continue to serve. She returned to bowling in her retirement years and bowled two 200 games while in her 80’s. She enjoyed doing puzzles with her daughter, Debra, and monthly card games with her friends. Lou was a faithful Christian and was a member of the Bartlett Woods Church of Christ for 50 years.
Lou Smith was a wonderful mother, proud grandparent and great-grandparent, loyal friend, conscientious worker, and faithful Christian. She will be missed by all.
