Mary Ellen Smith, born August 28, 1930, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Ella Mae and Dail Lawrence, passed away surrounded by family and love.

A graveside service is planned for 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at Bethel Cemetery, Burnet, Texas.  Serving as Honorary Pallbearers will be, Jeffery Allen Bell, Leon Clyde Reynolds, Nolan Lee Floyd, Leon Brody Reynolds, Jeremy Duane Davis, and Justin William Davis

On November 14, 1948, she married the love of her life, Donald (Don) Duane Smith. Together they shared 61 years of marriage before his passing on May 25, 2010. Their life together was blessed with three children: Donna Marie Bell (deceased July 11, 2011), Merlyn Duane “Sam” Smith (deceased September 16, 2002), and Janet Elaine Reynolds, wife of Leon Reynolds Jr.

Mary was the proud grandmother of Jeffery Allen Bell, Leon Clyde Reynolds, Michelle Elaine Floyd, Jennifer Leann Davis, and Courtney Marie McElroy. She was further blessed with 15 great-grandchildren and numerous great-great-grandchildren who cherished her deeply.

She spent her career as a skilled tailor and seamstress, creating with her hands and talents. After living in Gove, Kansas during her early married life, she and Don moved to Ingleside, Texas in 1971, where they made many memories until his passing. Mary later relocated to Burnet, Texas, in the beautiful Hill Country, to be near her daughter and family.

Mary was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She dedicated her life to her family, finding her greatest joy in her roles as grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, embroidery, quilting, sewing, cooking, reading, and watching movies. Known for her independence, strength, and love, she touched every life around her.

Mary is survived by her sister, Elsie Mae Helget. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald (Don) Duane Smith; her daughter, Donna Marie Bell; her son, Merlyn Duane Smith; her siblings, Marjorie Stapleton, Marcialee Johnson, and Marvin “Bud” Lawrence.

Her life and legacy of love, resilience, and devotion will live on in the many generations she leaves be