Marsha Joseph Smith

Marsha Joseph Smith, age 75, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024, after a courageous battle with multiple sclerosis. She was many things in life…a beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, friend and teacher, but her most favorite role was being “Mimi” to her six grandchildren.

Born on November 6, 1948 to Joe and Yvonne Joseph, Marsha grew up in Birmingham, Alabama. She graduated from Shades Valley High School and attended college at Montevallo University, later graduating from Auburn University. While at Auburn, she met the love of her life, Billy, who saw her sitting in a car alone in front of his fraternity house. Although she was waiting for her date, he knew he had to take a chance, jump in the car and introduce himself. That split second decision led to a beautiful 53-year marriage full of laughter and love.

Marsha loved history and geography and turned that passion into a teaching career. She received her Master's Degree from The University of North Alabama and taught many students at Athens High School, East Limestone High School, Calhoun Community College and Athens State University. As her disease progressed, she retired from teaching but never lost her love of sharing historical facts.

As a long-time resident of Athens, Alabama, she loved her city and her friends. She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church. She served her community for many years as an active member of the Athena League, holding the positions of secretary and president.

Marsha found joy in every day but was always the happiest when surrounded by her family. She loved a full house, especially during the holidays, their annual beach trip and cheering on her beloved Auburn Tigers. As long as she was with family, her heart was full. She was loved deeply and will be forever missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe John Joseph and Yvonne Dennis Joseph.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Billy Gaines Smith Jr.; daughters Ashley Smith Byrd (Andy) and Jennifer Smith Bird (Whit); son, Gaines Smith (Chasity); grandchildren, J.W, Davis, Jenny Lynn, Andrew, Hayden and Bodee; sisters Renee Kennedy (Randall), Pamela Moore, Lauren Smith (Hal); brothers Dennis Joseph (Linda) and Joe Joseph (Tricia); brother-in-law John Smith (Kandye) and sister-in-law Pattye Wilson (Robert).

The service will be Friday, September 6, 2024 at 11 a.m. at McConnell Funeral Home in Athens, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The National MS Society and Huntsville Hospital Hospice Family Care.

The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, visits and support throughout the years. We are truly grateful.