It is with great sadness that the family of Mary Elizabeth Hutchinson Smith announces her passing from this life on Friday, October 25, 2024 at Diversicare in Brookhaven, MS where she resided. She was born on October 19, 1933 in Shaw, MS to Johnny Luther Grimes and Ethel Christine Parker Grimes.

She was an incredible matriarch, regarded fondly as “The Queen” of the family. It was a title that she embraced lovingly.  She baked, cooked, cared for her beloved plants and was always a huge presence in the everyday lives of her children and grandchildren as well as her great-grandchildren.

She enjoyed her last years at Diversicare becoming “Prom Queen” of the nursing facility. She blossomed under the kindness and care of the Diversicare Staff and was affectionately known as the “jigsaw puzzle lady” or “Miss Mary.” Most often, she could be found in the activity area working puzzles, playing bingo, participating in yoga or Bible study. She was always excited about a new craft or fun activity.

Preceding her in death was the father of her children, Kermis Lavon Hutchinson, and Hiram Carnie Smith, whom she married later in life. She is preceded by both of her parents; one daughter, Shirley Derrick; a son-in-law, Nate Lambert; and one grandson, Jason Gallagher.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Frances Lambert (Nate), Eddie Hutchinson (Donna), Linda Magee (James) and son-in-law, David Derrick. She is survived by seven grandchildren, Beth Larkin (Pat), Marty Trott (Michael), Shane Lambert, Keith Hutchinson, Kevin Hutchinson (Beth), Todd Smith (Kara) and Scotty Smith (Lindsay); as well as fourteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren, and one on the way.

Services will be held Friday, November 1, 2024 at Brookhaven Funeral Home, Brookhaven, MS.  Visitation is 9-11 a.m. with service to follow. Burial will be in the Old Arm Cemetery in Silver Creek, MS.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Diversicare Residents’ Activity Fund, a cause close to her heart.