Lora Marshall Smith

Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at McClain-Hays Chapel, with the interment to follow in the Smith Family Cemetery in Kemper County. Bro. Chris Gully will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Thursday at McClain-Hays.

Mrs. Lora Mae Marshall Smith of DeKalb, MS, age 108, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at the home of her daughter in Jonesboro, Georgia. Born on July 10, 1917, Lora lived through more than a century of remarkable change, witnessing and contributing to the world with her quiet strength and enduring grace. Her life was marked by devotion to her family, community, and the simple joys that brought her fulfillment.

A graduate of Forest Dale High School, Lora carried her education into a life of service and entrepreneurship. Alongside her late husband, George E. Smith, she was the heart and soul behind George Smith Grocery in Kemper. For decades, the store stood as more than just a place to shop—it was a cornerstone of the community where neighbors were treated like family and help was always extended with kindness. Together, Lora and George cultivated an atmosphere of warmth and generosity that left a lasting impression on generations of local families.

If she wasn’t behind the counter at the family store, Lora found joy in her home life. She spent much of her time in her vegetable garden and was well-known for her sewing talents. Her hand-made quilts and other projects are treasured by those fortunate enough to receive them. In the kitchen, she was especially known for the sugar cookies that became her signature touch to every gathering she attended.

She was a devoted member of Damascus Free Will Baptist Church, where she found spiritual strength and fellowship among friends who cherished her presence. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for many years, participating in its mission of charitable work.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband George; her parents George W. and Callie Marshall; her son Benny P. Smith; son-in-law Donald Anderson; daughter-in-law Margaret Smith, and siblings Lillian Marshall Warren, James Lawson Marshall, Algie Lamar Marshall, Johnny Ray Marshall, William Edgar Marshall, R.B. Marshall, and Miriam Marshall Hardy.

Lora is survived by her loving children: Marshall (Jean) Smith, Patsy Anderson, and Robert Smith; sister Freddie Barnett; grandchildren Penny Smith Holmes (Derek), Jason (Tammie) Anderson, Melody Anderson, Ashley Smith Allen (Shawn), and Caroline Smith (Chance Lowery); great-grandchildren Claire Holmes Rhodes, Madeline Holmes Stewart, Grant Holmes, Will Anderson, and Frank Lowery; as well as many nieces and nephews who hold dear memories of their cherished “Aunt Coot.”

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her and serve as a lasting reminder of a life well-lived.

Pallbearers will be Randy Smith, Billy Barnett, Derek Holmes, Jason Anderson, Tony Hardy, Shawn Allen.

Honorary Pallbearers are Will Anderson and Grant Holmes.