Seltenie "Tina" Smith

Seltenie “Tina” Jackson Smith was born on June 22, 1949, in Liberty, Mississippi to Juniors Jackson and Desaree Griffin. On February 2, 2026, Tina peacefully passed away at her home in Pearland, Texas.

Tina’s life was marked by strength, perseverance, and independence. At the age of 12, following the passing of her mother, she was placed in an orphanage, an experience that helped shape her resilience and determination. At just 17 years old, Tina proudly joined the United States Marine Corps, where she served honorably. While stationed in California, she went on to adopt her younger siblings, further reflecting her deep sense of responsibility and love for family.

After completing her military service, Tina built a successful career with Lockheed Martin, where she worked as a Production Manager until her retirement.

In 1984, Tina married Norman Smith. Together, they built a loving family and shared many years of companionship. Tina was a devoted mother to four sons: Otis Muldrew, Demetree Jackson, Damion Jackson, and Justin Smith Sr.

After retiring, Tina truly embraced life. She enjoyed shopping, dining out, and treating herself to regular trips to the nail salon. She was often described as independent, loving, and caring. Tina was also known for her straightforward wisdom and sense of humor. She often reminded those around her, “You get what you get and don’t catch a fit,” a saying that perfectly reflected her resilient spirit.

Tina was preceded in death by her parents, Juniors Jackson and Desaree Griffin; her husband, Norman Smith; her son, Otis Muldrew; her sisters, Mary Griffin, Roxie Jackson, Wilner Jackson, and Lenora Jackson; her brother, Donnie Foster Sr.; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Demetree Jackson of New Orleans, Louisiana; Damion (Domonique) Jackson of New Orleans, Louisiana; and Justin Smith Sr. (Shykeria Bogan) of Pearland, Texas; along with her 19 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Seltenie “Tina” Jackson Smith will truly be missed, but her strength, love, and legacy will live on in all who were blessed to know her.