Mary Phillis Smith

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Mary Phillis Smith, age 80, on February 22, 2025. Born on November 19, 1944, in Memphis, TN, Phillis was the loving sister to the late Joe Spain (Carolyn), Jim Spain (Barbara), and the late Bobby Spain. She was a devoted wife to the late William Wayne Smith, her greatest love, with whom she is now reunited with in Heaven. Together, they built a beautiful life full of love, joy, and cherished memories.

As a loving and dedicated mother to her sons and their spouses, Timothy (Gwen), Christopher (Cathy), and Jeffrey (Randi) Smith, Phillis always guided them with strength, love, and wisdom. Her pride in her children knew no bounds, and her love for them was evident in everything she did. Phillis found immeasurable joy in their successes, celebrated their every milestone, and was a constant source of comfort during difficult times. To her, they were the light of her life, and she treasured each moment spent with them. Her deep devotion to her sons created a lasting bond, and she will forever be remembered for the love and guidance she gave them throughout her life.

As a grandmother and great grandmother (known lovingly as Mam-ma), Phillis’s love blossomed even further. She treasured her sleepovers, field trips, and countless memories with her grandchildren: Ashley (Trey), Austin (Meri-Kathryn), Logan (Kamryn), Addison, Emma, Everett, and Blakely. Her laughter, warmth, and wisdom were a constant source of comfort and joy in their lives.

Phillis’s life was deeply anchored in her relationship with God. Her faith provided her with strength, peace, and purpose, shaping everything she did. It was the foundation of her actions, shining through in her kindness and in the way she cared for those around her.

Phillis had a deep connection to her Italian roots, and she lovingly passed down her culinary traditions, especially her famous meatballs, which became a symbol of her nurturing spirit. Her love for family was evident in every meal she made and every board game she played, from Skip-Bo to Yahtzee, where she created cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Known for her charming mispronunciations and quirky catchphrases, Phillis brought laughter to everyone she encountered. Whether she was asking for an “idear” or suggesting a trip to “Zackabees” instead of Zaxby’s, her unique way of speaking always brightened the room.

Phillis’s life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her faith and her family. She lived with love, compassion, and grace, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and joy that will continue through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Now reunited with her beloved husband and rejoicing in Heaven, her legacy of love, joy, and faith will remain forever in the hearts of those she touched.

A visitation for Mary will be held Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133. Her funeral service will occur Friday, February 28, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133. The graveside service will occur Friday, February 28, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133.