Mary Louise Smith

Mary Louise "Muggie" was born on November 1, 1929 to Will and Irene Smith. Mary attended Ryan Elementary School when it was only a three room building. She then went on to complete her education at Phyllis Wheatley High School. Mary confessed Christ at an early age and was baptized at New Hope Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend L. T. Jackson. In 1952, Mary united in holy matrimony to Herman Eugene Smith. "Muggie and "Boola" as they were affectionately called were wellrespected members of the Ryons Addition community. In the early years of their marriage, Mary worked alongside her husband as he coached Ryon Sports. Mary later became a successful entrepreneur by selling Avon products to her friends and neighbors for a number of years. For many years she worked at Lans Barbecue where she developed a reputation for being an excellent cook throughout the community. Nobody could smother a chicken and bake a cake like Muggie. While pursuing her secular jobs, Mary did not forsake work the Lord had given her to do. She faithfully served in various ministries at New Hope Baptist Church for over sixty-five years. Mary was committed to the both the spiritual and physical growth of the church. With her welcoming smile, she served as doorkeeper for numerous years. Mary devoted her time to help build God's Kingdom by serving as dedicated member of the Mission and Planning Committee. She regularly attended Sunday Worship Services, Teacher's Meeting and Sunday School. She also worked as the church maintenance person until her health begin to fail. Mary used her God-given talent for cooking to support the church. She, along with many of the other women of her generation, hosted numerous barbecue dinner and fish plate fundraisers, which helped finance the construction of our current church building. Muggie loved the Lord, her church and fellowman. Matthew 5:16 reads, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Muggie surely allowed her light to shine. Mary is preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother: Frank Smith; and sister: Dorothy Lenard. She leaves to cherish her memory a loving family, friends and the New Hope Baptist Church congregation