Shirley Lofton Smith

Shirley was a beloved wife and dedicated homemaker of 51 years. She was a respected matriarch of the family with unyielding pride and unconditional love for her children and grandchildren. Her family and friends meant the world to her.

Shirley loved piecing together jigsaw puzzles, reading, shopping, and cruising around in her red Lexus. But ask her what she really loved and it would be the countless hands of Canasta with her dear sisters-in-law Faye, Sadie, Dot, Betty and Marjorie. Game night with the girls was a serious engagement and any interruption was at your own risk! Shirley’s passion for playing cards would later be shared by her adoring grandchildren. During her favorite time of the year, Shirley cherished decorating the house for Christmas with her grandchildren and opening presents on Christmas Eve where her true mastery of gift-giving shone through.

With her love for family knowing no bounds, Shirley had provided round-the-clock care for her ailing husband and daughter in their final years with selfless and tireless devotion. Having learned from Shirley’s example, her daughter, Lisa, cared for and remained by her side for two years until her passing. Lisa was assisted, in no small part, by the loving care of Cassandra Williams, Kimberly London, Khaleisha Walker, and Crystal Coghlan of Clarity Hospice.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Allen and Pearl Lofton, her brother Allen Lofton Jr., her husband Charles Edward Smith Jr., her daughter Cathy Lynn Smith, and her grandson David Matherne. She is survived by her daughter Lisa Smith, her son David Smith and his wife Jayne, and her grandchildren Austin Matherne, Taylor Matherne, Marshall Matherne, Sarah Smith, and Grant Smith – and you can’t forget the great-grandpups Charlie, Jax, and Luna.

Shirley will be remembered for her shiny red nails, her contagious sense of humor, for having a wit as sharp as a whip, and for being notoriously stubborn until the very end (something to which many of her family can relate).

All are welcome to attend the graveside service at Resthaven, Thursday, September 17th, at 1:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Clarity Hospice of Baton Rouge or a favorite charity of your choice.