Mary J. Smith

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a cherished and beloved mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend. Born on February 7, 1933, in the heart of Chester, South Carolina, Mary (aka Jerry) lived a life marked by dedication, compassion, and unwavering love for her family and community.

She pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree from Howard University and a master’s degree in social work from Bowie State University. This achievement laid the foundation for a fulfilling career dedicated to the well-being of young children. For most of her adult life, she poured her heart and soul into the Head Start Program, where she made a profound and lasting impact on countless lives.

Her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit touched everyone she encountered. She was a pillar of strength for her family, offering unwavering support and unconditional love. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her children, Keith, Ingrid, Paris, and Kevin, two children who predeceased her, Ernest and Timmy; her siblings, Evelyn, Thomas, Jeannette and Barbara; grandchildren, Mary, Bart, Cameron, Neil, Jamie, Julia, Kendel, Ben, Cierra, Tatyana, Manny and Alex; great grandchildren, Grace, Aiya, Gray, Caleb, Hannah, Ethan, Lenore, Bubby, Madison and McKenzie; nieces; nephews, and a host of extended family members, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will be forever treasured.

A memorial gathering for Mary will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Robert E. Evans Funeral Home, 16000 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715, followed by a memorial service at 12:00 PM. Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Head Start Association at https://nhsa.org/donate/