Mary Virginia Smoot

While her 97 years in this world were long, and filled with many sweet memories, there is no place she would rather be than in Heaven!

Mary Virginia Holman was born on April 5, 1927 in Hannibal, Missouri to R.B. “Shorty” and Mary Holman. She was soon after joined by her dear younger brother, John Holman.

Mary (fondly called Jenny by family and friends), met Charles F. Smoot in Hannibal, where they were high school sweethearts. After graduation, Charles joined the Army Air Corp and was sent to Europe. He sent letters frequently, but she wrote one to him every day! Mary and Charles were married on August 15, 1945. After completing his military service, Charles went to college and seminary, and became a Baptist minister. He always credited her for teaching him to read, and he became a lifelong reader of the Bible and numerous other books! Together, they ministered to several churches in Missouri before moving the family to Colorado. There they ministered in Wellington, Fort Collins, and Loveland, Colorado. She emphasized that they were called to ministry as a team. She always supported him and was confident in God’s leading in their lives!

There were seven children born from their marriage! Becky Techau, Mark Smoot, Stephen Smoot, Deborah Anderson, Mary Beth Nobe, Timothy Smoot and Melissa Baker. They later welcomed 21 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren into their lives. Raising 7 children was uniquely challenging as a Pastor’s wife, and was nothing short of amazing! She kept up with their busy lives, and also lovingly remembered every grandchild, and great-grandchild’s life events, and birthdays!

Mary taught herself to become an accomplished seamstress. Many beautiful dresses were made by her for her daughters and granddaughters. The famous “Dress” that she made for Becky when she was two, was worn by Debbie, Beth and Melissa and nearly every granddaughter! Mary went to work at Colorado State University in 1969, and worked as an administrator for 24 years. Even after she officially retired, she was often called back in to help on particularly large and complex grants and proposals. She made many friends there. She was a confidant, a mentor, a trusted friend, and a spiritual advisor to her co-workers. Many of those relationships lasted long after she retired.

Mary is preceded in death by husband Charles Smoot, son Mark Smoot, and other family and dear friends. She is survived by her remaining large family, and many nieces and nephews, who are scattered around the U.S. and the world. She was loved by all.

On Sunday, July 21 at 2:30-5 pm at the

Fort Collins Senior Center

1200 Raintree Dr,

Fort Collins, CO 80526

There will be a remembrance potluck. Any who want to attend, can bring a dish to share, your own plates, utensils, and beverages. And most importantly, do not forget your stories about Mary!