August 19, 1936  –  February 6, 2025

Marion Helen Raines Smith, known affectionately as Marion to her family and friends, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, in New Albany, MS, where she was surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 19, 1936, in Union County, MS, Marion was a beacon of love and selflessness throughout her 88 years. She was a member of Fredonia Baptist Church.

Marion was the cherished daughter of the late Hunter Neeley Raines and Maxine Matkins Raines. Her life was a testament to the strength and resilience instilled in her by her parents. She grew up alongside her siblings, and she carried the values of her upbringing throughout her life.

After a fulfilling career at Irwin B. Schwabe, Marion dedicated her retirement years to nurturing young minds by babysitting children in her home. It was a role she embraced with the same passion and dedication that characterized her professional life.

Marion’s legacy is carried on through her beloved family. She is survived by her loving daughter, Sherry Smith Emerick; her sons, Jeffrey Hunter Smith, and Stephen Lee Smith; two sisters, Norma Raines Love (Fred), and Brenda Raines Williams; and one brother, David Raines. Her life was further enriched by grandchildren, Angie Dillard, Mikey Hayes, Stephen Smith (Cindy), Alex Smith, Addy Smith, and CadeeAna Russell (Eli); great-grandchildren, Cortney Dillard, Walker Dillard, Abel Nutt, Kinsley Smith, and Dawson Smith; and great-great-grandchild ,Henley Ferguson, and all will miss her deeply. Marion was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Roy Lee Smith; siblings Sandra Raines Cook, Harold Raines, John Michael Raines, and William (Gid) Raines.

Marion’s interests and hobbies were reflective of her generous and loving nature. She was an avid reader. Her love for puzzle books kept her mind sharp, and her skills in cooking were an expression of her desire to care for and provide for her family. Marion was known for her selflessness, often sacrificing her own needs to ensure that her family had everything they needed and wanted.

Those who knew Marion will remember her as the epitome of generosity and love. She had a remarkable ability to put others before herself, and her presence was a comfort to everyone around her. Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent loving on them.

As we say goodbye to Marion, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. Her spirit, characterized by an endless capacity to give and love, will continue to guide and inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Marion’s journey through life was marked by the grace with which she carried herself and the unconditional love she offered to all. Her story is not one of an end, but a lasting legacy of the love she gave and the lives she touched.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Marion will be deeply missed, but her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those she loved. Services to honor her life will be Sunday, February 9, 2025, at United Funeral Home at 3:00 pm, with Bro. Mitchell Hall and Bro. Marty Browning officiating. A visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until service time also at United Funeral Service. Burial will be at Ingomar Cemetery.

United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these services.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.