Mary Jeanne Smith, age 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Starr Regional Medical Center.

Jeanne was born on September 27, 1934, in Lynch, Kentucky, to the late Leonard and Dora McAlister.

She was married to the late Kenneth Smith for 69 years, sharing a lifetime together built through hard work, devotion, and many treasured years of companionship.

Jeanne was a remarkably talented and hardworking woman. For many years, she owned and operated Smith's Grocery in Murphy, North Carolina, where she became a familiar face to many in the community. She was also a wonderful cook and an exceptionally gifted seamstress. Whether she was sewing, crocheting, cooking, or creating something with her hands, Jeanne had a special talent for making things beautiful. Her creativity and skill were gifts that remained a part of who she was throughout her life.

To those who knew and loved her, she was simply "Aunt Jeanne," and she will be remembered for the life she lived, the things she created, and the many memories she leaves behind.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of Life Care Center of Athens, who cared for Aunt Jeanne with kindness, tenderness, and respect over the past several years. Your compassion helped make the final chapter of her life one of comfort, dignity, and grace. Our family will forever be grateful for the loving care you provided.

In accordance with Jeanne's wishes, no funeral service will be held.

May she rest peacefully, reunited with those she loved who went before her.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Jeanne or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.