Catherine Powell Smith, 94
September 30, 1931 – July 31, 2026
Catherine Powell Smith passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the age of 94. She was born on September 30, 1931, in Mooreville, Mississippi, to Mitty Powell Listenbee and was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Abbie Powell and Willie Bob Powell. At an early age, she moved to Tupelo, Mississippi, where she built a life rooted in faith, education, service, and family.
Catherine graduated from George Washington Carver High School in 1950 before continuing her education at Okolona Junior College and later studying at the University of Mississippi. She possessed a lifelong passion for learning and dedicated her life to serving others through education and ministry.
On June 18, 1952, Catherine married the love of her life, William “Sonny” Smith Sr. Together, they built a loving home and shared many wonderful years of marriage while raising their three sons, William Smith Jr., Robert Powell Smith Sr., and Brent Winslow Smith Sr., instilling in them the values of faith, integrity, compassion, and the importance of family.
As an educator, Catherine devoted her life to serving children through the Head Start program throughout Tupelo and later became the Director of the St. Paul Methodist Head Start Program, where she faithfully led and mentored countless children and families. Her nurturing spirit, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to education left an enduring impact on generations throughout the community.
A woman of unwavering faith, Catherine was a devoted member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, where she faithfully served in numerous ministries throughout her life. She was also a lifetime member of Queen Esther Court No. 40, Heroines of Jericho, faithfully serving the organization for more than sixty years.
Catherine’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished every moment with her seven beloved grandchildren, Michelle M. Smith, Brent W. Smith II and his wife, Brittany, Robert P. Smith II, Brach W. Smith, William J. Smith and his wife, Johana, Micah B. Smith, and Virginia C. Smith, as well as her six treasured great-grandchildren, Michael D. Babbit, Zahara E. Prather, Mila Z. Smith, Brent W. “Tres” Smith III, Evelyn E. Smith, and Asher R. Smith. She found immeasurable joy in watching her family grow and always offered unconditional love, encouragement, wisdom, and steadfast support. She also leaves behind her beloved daughters-in-law, Virginia A. Smith and Marilyn M. Smith, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by her kindness, grace, and unwavering faith.
Catherine’s life was a testament to faith, character, integrity, compassion, and selfless service. Through her unwavering dedication as an educator, her faithful service to her church and community, and her unconditional love for her family, she leaves behind a legacy built on kindness, wisdom, and strong values that will continue to inspire generations. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
“Well Done, good and faithful servant.” —- Matthew 25:23
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