Leona Estelle Pettis Smith

Funeral services for Mrs. Leona Estelle Pettis Smith will begin at 10:30 am Saturday, August 3, 2019 at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend John G. Brock and Reverend Calvin Price officiating. Interment will follow at Phalti Baptist Church Cemetery in Jasper County. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Mrs. Smith 81, of Meridian passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2019 at Laird Hospital in Union, MS.

Mrs. Smith was a member of Oak Hill Baptist Church where she was a longtime dedicated Sunday School Teacher, Choir Member, and servant in all areas needed. She was the former secretary at Oakland Heights Baptist Church (Now Oak Hill Baptist Church), Mississippi Chemical and The Lauderdale County Juvenile Center where she retired. She was an avid reader and enjoyed baking and cooking for family whenever possible. She enjoyed gardening and crocheting in her spare time. She was affectionately known as “Mawmaw” by her grandchildren, great-grandchild and one great-grandchild on the way, all whom she loved dearly.

Mrs. Leona is survived by her husband of 64 years, Virgil “T.V.” Smith; Vivian Nicholson (Barry), Louise Walker (Chris); grandchildren, James Nicholson, Daniel Nicholson, Timothy Nicholson, Brittanie Gardner (Daniel), Lauren Walker; great-grandchildren, Weston Gardner and infant Ellee Gardner on the way. Siblings, Virginia Pettis, and Thomas Pettis (Gloria); special niece, Angela Pettis (David Williams), special friend, Tyler Shirley; a host of extended family and friends; as well as her beloved pets, Boots, Blackie, and Max.

Mrs. Smith is preceded in death by her parents Mr. Ellis and Mrs. Cordie Mae Pettis; and infant brother, Joseph Pettis.

Pallbearers will be James Nicholson, Daniel Nicholson, Timothy Nicholson, Daniel Gardner, Jerry Tillman, and Tyler Shirley. Weston Gardner will be an honorary pallbearer.

The family would like to express special appreciation to the Doctors, Nurses and Staff of Laird Hospital in Union for their exceptional care.

The family suggest that memorials be made to St. Patrick Catholic School of Meridian in lieu of flowers.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at robertbarhamffh.com

The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm Friday August 2, 2019 at the funeral home.