Margaret Smith

Margaret L'Mell Smith

Lansing, MI

Age 64, died suddenly on April 16, 2014.  She was born in New Orleans, LA on August 9, 1949.  She earned a BA Degree from Louisiana State University where she was a member of the Sigma Chapter of the Delta Zeta Sorority. She later earned her Jurist Doctorate from Thomas M. Cooley Law School.  L'Mell's legal acumen was recognized throughout her tenure in state government as demonstrated by her appointments to adjudicative positions by three Michigan Governors.  In 1988, L'Mell was appointed by Governor James Blanchard to the Workers' Compensation Appeal Board with the Michigan Department of Labor.  She was appointed by Governor John Engler to the Workers' Compensation Board of Magistrates in 1991 and was reappointed to the Board twice—serving through 2006.  In 2011, she was appointed by Governor Rick Snyder to the new Michigan Compensation Appellate Commission (MCAC), a position she ably filled until her passing.  As a Commissioner and a Magistrate, L'Mell used her extensive knowledge of administrative and workers' compensation law to serve the state and its citizens.  She was a former Board Member of the University Club, and a member of the U Club Ladies Golfing Gals who will dearly miss her.    Surviving are her husband of 40 years, Kimbal Robert Smith, III; a son, Kimbal R. Smith, IV; 3 grandchildren; sister, Victoria Spurlock; nieces, nephews, and cousins.  A Memorial Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 23rd from 3-6 p.m. at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.  Memorial contributions may be made to the LSU Sigma Chapter of the Delta Zeta Sorority.