Myrtle Jenell Smith

Myrtle Jenell Smith was born on October 10, 1949, to Kerry Sr. and Inez Smith in Robstown, Texas. She was the seventh of eight children, but the youngest of her surviving siblings. Everyone knew Jenell as the “baby” of the kids. Her mother often called her “Jenny” instead of Jenell.

She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was baptized by the late Rev. Everett of their home church, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist in Robstown. She was a faithful member of several churches in adulthood. Jenell also ensured that her children were raised in the church, regularly taking them with her on Sunday mornings. The church remained a part of Jenell’s life throughout her adulthood, and she attended in person until she was no longer physically able. Jenell knew the Lord personally, through His Word, and experienced His forgiveness and restoration.

Jenell gave birth to three amazing children, two boys and one girl. Her first child, Haywood Jr., died as a toddler. She had Carie LaShen, affectionately known as “Trudy”, and her baby boy, Christopher Brent. She loved her children and offered the best of herself at the time. Jenell kept them looking sharp as well. Fashion, shopping, and decorating were some of her favorite things. She also loved to go dancing and, in later years, dinner and movie outings with her friends.

Her career spanned years in the nursing and caregiving fields, until she was no longer physically able to perform the tasks due to illness. She battled for decades with Lupus and its complications but maintained a positive outlook and hopeful disposition.

Jenell is preceded in death by her parents, Kerry Smith, Sr., and Inez Henderson Smith; one son, Haywood Cole, Jr.; sisters Linda Ann, Wanda Faye, and Eunice Maxine; and her only brother, Kerry, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her memories: her daughter, Carie Cole; her son, Chris McGray (Shonda); her grandsons, Bryce Cole, Sr., Brett Floyd, Brelin McQuirter, and Devon Brownlow; one great-granddaughter, Brenae; and three great-grandsons, Bryce, Jr., Messiah, and Brayden; Siblings, Joyce Smith-Downie, Jewel Carolyn Byrd, and Frances Jean Teamer. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

A visitation for Myrtle will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Following the visitation will be a prayer service at 1:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel Corpus Christi, 549 Cheyenne St, Corpus Christi, Texas 78405.