Mary Lou Smith

Mary Lou Warren Smith, a spirited soul known for her adventurous spirit and courageous heart, passed away on September 5, 2024, after an extended illness. Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, on March 14, 1945, Mary spent her formative years in the Sunshine State, where she cultivated a zest for life and a reputation for being a kind and fun-loving individual.

A proud veteran, Mary served her country with distinction, enlisting twice in the US Army. Her service was a reflection of her selfless nature and her commitment to the values she held dear. After her military career, Mary continued her life of service at the US Postal Service in St. Petersburg, where she was a respected and dedicated worker for several years.

In 2014, Mary relocated to Dothan, Alabama, a place she would call home for the remainder of her years. Her presence in the community was marked by her involvement with the Seventh Day Adventist Churches in Dothan, where she was an active and cherished member. Mary's motto, "It's my prerogative," encapsulated her approach to life—she was unafraid to voice her opinions and stood firm in her beliefs and values.

Mary's interests and personality traits painted the picture of a woman who embraced life with open arms. She was always ready for a new adventure and faced challenges head-on. Her courage was not just evident in her military service but also in the way she conducted herself daily. Friends and family will remember her as a beacon of joy and kindness, someone who could light up a room with her presence and make anyone feel at ease.

She is survived by her sisters, Lillie (Dr. G. Barry) Taylor and Coletta (Willie) Burroughs; by her brother, Charles Warren; by her nieces and nephews, Nina Warren, Robert Johnson, Barron Taylor, and Khaalis Burroughs; several great nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins, family, and friends, all of whom will miss her deeply. Mary is also survived by her life long friends, including, Lolethia "Toni" Kibble and Wynona Green Williams. Mary's legacy is one of passion, service, and an unwavering dedication to her loved ones and her community.

Mary is preceded in death by her mother, Mamie Lee Cooper Warren, who passed away in 1955, by her step-mother and father, King and Edna Warren, who raised her.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at 2pm on Friday, September 13, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. Mary will be laid to rest with military honors in Sunset Memorial Park, a fitting tribute to a woman who served her country with honor and pride. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 1pm until service time, providing an opportunity for those whose lives were touched by Mary to come together and remember her extraordinary life.

Mary Lou Warren Smith will be remembered as a person who lived life to the fullest, who loved fiercely, and who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She was a treasure to her family, a loyal friend, and a valued member of her community. Her adventurous and courageous spirit will live on through the countless stories and memories shared by those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.

The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude for the outstanding care provided by Noland's ExtendiCare Health Center and Southeast Health.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com