Celia Munn Smith

Celia Munn Smith of Athens, Georgia epitomized what we consider to be the Southern lady. Exceptionally well-mannered, gracious, and loving, Celia was a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend. She passed away Saturday morning, July 8, 2023.

Born November 23, 1946, in Rock Hill, South Carolina to parents Curtis and Artie Munn, Celia regularly spoke with reverence regarding her hometown, upbringing, family and friends. She maintained these relationships throughout her life.

Moving to her adopted hometown of Athens in 1967, she shared this same level of pride. An avid supporter of numerous charitable causes as well as “all-things Athens,” Celia’s poise, kind nature, and tireless devotion lead her to be a fixture within the banking community. Among her most impressive career achievements was her length of tenure with her one and only employer: National Bank of Athens (later merging into Trust Company of Georgia, SunTrust Bank, and what is today, Truist). Following more than forty years of service and retiring as Vice President and Branch Manager of the downtown Athens Main Office, Celia was beloved by clients and coworkers alike. Her work is remembered affectionately as “the way things used to be.”

The love Celia held for her heritage, community, and work was surpassed only by the love she had for her family and friends. Celia carried boundless love in her heart, and her genuine goodness was palpable to all who had the privilege to know her.

Celia is survived by her husband, Phil Smith of Athens; her daughter, Paula Martin, son-in-law John; and granddaughter, Gracee of Athens; her sister, Sandra Snipes of Mebane, NC, as well as stepchildren: Steven, Jeffrey, and Carie Smith and their respective families.

Visitation will be held at Bernstein Funeral Home, 3195 Atlanta Highway, Athens, GA, on Thursday, July 13, from 10:00am to 11:00am, followed by a chapel service at 11:00am, concluding with the burial at Evergreen Memorial Park.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.