Dolores Smallenberger Spence

In Loving Memory of
Dolores Lynn "Mimi" Smallenberger Spence
Born August 18, 1958 - Carthage, Texas
Passed October 27, 2025- Texarkana, Arkansas
"Not all those who wander are lost." - J.R.R, Tolkien
On October 27, 2025, our family said goodbye to a truly unforgettable woman - Dolores Lynn Smallenberger Spence lovingly known to everyone as Mimi. She was 67 years old and passed peacefully in Texarkana, Arkansas, surrounded by love
Mimi lived her life with a rare mix of strength, humor, and heart. She built a career as a hardworking paralegal, but it was her compassion, wisdom, and wit that truly defined her. She had a gift for listening - not just hearing, but really listening - and she could turn life's little inconveniences into meaningful lessons
She loved her family fiercely. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren -creating laughter, sharing advice, or simply being together. Her fur babies also held a special place in her heart; they were her loyal companions and constant comfort
A proud gamer with an adventurous spirit, Mimi found joy exploring the worlds of World of Warcraft, The Sims, and Star Wars: The Old Republic. She approached every adventure, both virtual and real, with curiosity and excitement
Her favorite saying, "Take a no and go turn it into a yes," reflected her determination and courage. She spoke her mind, loved deeply, and lived authentically.
Though she had the heart of a wanderer, Mimi's true happiness was found in the quiet moments with her family - the ones who were her greatest adventure all along.
Mimi was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy Cullom Smallenberger and Thelma Fern Mounce.
She is survived by her children: Jesse Mathis; Jake Powell and his spouse Amber Doizer Powell; Lacy Marquez and her spouse Jamie Paulette; and Feliciarose Marquez-Daughdrill and her spouse Steven Daughdrill.
Her legacy continues through her grandchildren - Jacob Marquez, Tasha Loy (and spouse Ray Loy), Mykei Hopkins, Jasen Daughdrill, Anna Arnold, Havan Tucker, Kaylie Daughdrill, Ethan Mathis, Leeloo Powell, Jesse Mathis, Abigail Mathis, Keelie Daugdrill, Cassie Powell, and Selene Powell - and her great-grandchildren Aliyah Loy, Bella Briggs, and Dixie Alton. Delores is also survived by numerous friends left to cherish her memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held on November 6th at 2:00 p.m. at Life House Church, 915 East St., Texarkana, AR 71854
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local spay and neuter clinic, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or by volunteering in your local community - acts of kindness that honor Mimi's giving spirit.
Mimi will be remembered for her honesty, humor, and adventurous soul. She taught us all to stand strong, love hard, and always find the yes.
Arrangements Entrusted to Tri-State Cremations & Funeral Services