Mary Nell (Smith) Graves

Mary Nell (Smith) Graves, our precious mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother went home to be with the Lord on December 8, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cornealia A. Gates and Norman Weeks; her siblings, Cornelia (Arthur) LaVell, Norman (Ida) Weeks, Jr., James (Opal) Dudley Weeks, John Preston (Doris) Weeks, Durward (Marie) Weeks, Victoria (Earl) Hensley, Lealia (Joe) Frankie and Jodie (Don) Brownson; her husbands, Edwin M. Smith and Thomas Graves; and her eldest son, Edwin Brent Smith.

Mary is survived by her children, William "Matt" Smith, Bridget (John) Ferrucci, Symba Smith, Sherry (Jason) Rumsey; her daughter in law, Nely Smith; her grandchildren, who lovingly called her grandma - Amberely (Josh) Bostwick, (and great grandchild, Ethan Bostwick), Eden Rumsey, Gabriel Rumsey, Mary Noelle Rumsey, Serrenna Smith, Anthony Wigley, and Nathan Morman.

Throughout her 95 beautiful years, Mary's greatest joy was her family. She found happiness in every holiday gathering, every shared meal, and every moment with those she loved. She was especially fond of gardening, music, dancing, and the simple joys of nature.

Mary grew up in Hansboro and later made her home in Orange Grove. Her flower gardens were admired by all who passed by her home, they were colorful, welcoming and lovingly tended, just like her.

Through every season of life, with all the challenges and the celebrations, Mary was the steady heart of our family. She was a constant source of love, strength, and kindness to everyone she met. Her legacy will live on in our hearts forever.

A family graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in her honor to Feed My Sheep in Gulfport, MS.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.