Martha Carol Smith

Carol was born in Memphis in 1946 to the late Mattie Whitsitt Houpt and Harold H. Houpt Sr. She grew up surrounded by a large, loving family and graduated from Treadwell High School. In 1966, she married the love of her life, Bryant I. Smith, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 60 years of marriage.

Carol enjoyed a long career with Union Planters National Bank, where she formed many lasting friendships. Above all else, she treasured time spent with her family. Whether gathering around the dinner table, celebrating holidays, or simply enjoying everyday moments, she had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel loved, welcomed, and at home. No one ever left her house hungry, and friends of her sons often considered her their second mother. She lovingly embraced them as her "extra kids."

Her greatest joy was being "G-Maw" to her grandchildren, who adored her. She cherished every moment spent with them—and with the many beloved grand-dogs who were also part of the family.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Jean Pinckley and Helen Austin; and her brother, Harold H. Houpt Jr.

She leaves behind her devoted husband, Bryant I. Smith; her sons, Joseph B. Smith and Jason A. Smith; her daughter-in-law, Sandra Smith; her granddaughter, Janelle Jefferson; her grandsons, Patrick Smith and Alex Smith; her sisters, Ruth Markle and Linda Andrews; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Carol's warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for others touched countless lives. Her legacy will live on through the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the many people who were fortunate enough to call her "Mom," "G-Maw," or simply "friend." She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A funeral service celebrating Carol's life will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Memphis, Tennessee, with Jim Markle officiating. The family will receive friends during visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m., one hour prior to the service.