Marguerite Dianne Smith

Marguerite Dianne Blue Smith, age 83, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was defined by faith, love, and devotion to her family. To know her was to experience genuine love in its purest form.

Born on October 14, 1942, in Lafayette, Dianne carried a gentle spirit and deep compassion for

others from an early age. She had a natural gift for making people feel welcomed, cared for, and

loved.

Dianne graduated from Lafayette High School in 1960 and later attended University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she studied Speech Pathology. After college, she married the love of her

life, Richard John “Jerry” Smith, Sr. Together they began their life in Hawaii, where they welcomed their two children, Rick and Beth, and built a life centered on faith, family, and adventure.

Over the next thirty years, Dianne and Jerry moved from Natchitoches, LA, to Norfolk, VA, and

later to Baton Rouge, LA, creating lifelong friendships and memories along the way. Upon retiring, they began a second chapter together in Jackson, LA, where they became innkeepers

and owned and operated the Asphodel Inn and Restaurant. Through their hospitality and warmth, they created a welcoming place that reflected their shared love of people and community. After their years in Jackson, they eventually settled in Baton Rouge, LA. Their

marriage spanned more than sixty years and was a beautiful example of love, devotion, and partnership.

Nothing brought Dianne more joy than her family. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Ricky and Megan Smith and Rock and Grace Thompson, all of whom she cherished deeply.

Dianne will be remembered for her strong faith, generous heart, and joyful spirit. She had a playful sense of humor that could brighten any room and found happiness in life’s simple pleasures including baking, sewing, watching Hallmark movies, putting together puzzles, hosting tea parties, and spending time with the people she loved. Sewing was one of her greatest passions, and she often created thoughtful gifts for family and friends.

She lived her faith daily through acts of kindness, encouragement, and compassion. Her home and heart were always open, and the love she shared will continue to be felt for generations to come.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel Duncan Blue, Jr. and Marguerite Alice Mestayer Blue, and by her beloved husband, Richard John “Jerry” Smith, Sr. She is survived by her loving siblings, Robert Keith Blue and Daniel Duncan Blue III; her children; and her cherished grandchildren.

A Mass celebrating her life will be held on May 23 at 10:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m., at Rabenhorst Funeral Home. A reception will follow the service