Margaret M. Smith

Grand Coteau– A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Margaret Smith at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025, in the St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Grand Coteau. Fr. Aaron Melancon will officiate the Mass. Rite of Committal will follow in the St. Charles Cemetery.

Margaret M. Smith, a beloved daughter, sister, dedicated nurse, and treasured friend, departed this life on September 18, 2025, at her residence in Opelousas, Louisiana, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born on February 14, 1970, in Lafayette, Louisiana, Margaret brought joy and warmth to the lives of everyone she encountered with her unwavering compassion and nurturing spirit.

Throughout her remarkable career, Margaret worked tirelessly as a supervisor trained manager/nurse, dedicating herself to the care of those in need. Her heart truly belonged to the Blood Center in New Orleans, where she devoted over 25 years. Additionally, Margaret’s commitment to elder care saw her grace in various nursing homes and psychiatric wards, always approaching her work with the utmost dedication and love. Her empathy and professionalism left a lasting impact on her patients and colleagues alike, many of whom still remember her engaging smile and gentle demeanor.

Beyond her professional achievements, Margaret found great contentment in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished her garden, where she cultivated not only beautiful blooms, vegetables and herbs but also a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. With the assistance of her cherished "soil sisters”, Aunt Catherine, Melody and Sadie, they collaborated in an ongoing journey to cultivate a vibrant garden, rich with beauty and life. This passion for gardening reflected her nurturing nature, as she poured her heart into tending to every flower as she did her patients and loved ones. Her culinary talents also shone brightly in her kitchen; she reveled in baking and cooking, often bringing families and friends together around the table with her delicious creations.

Margaret shared an unbreakable bond with her German Shepherd, Pepper. Together, they brought laughter and joy into her home, her loyal dog always by her side as a beloved companion through life’s ups and downs.

Margaret is survived by her close friend for over 30 years, Angela Roberts; her brother, Ricky Lewis, Sr.; sisters, Marvelle Smith, Sherelle Smith, Kimberly Smith-Forestier; aunt, Catherine Polidore; beloved dog, Pepper; nieces and nephews, James Chaisson, Jr., Jamal Chaisson, Shelea Chaisson, Ricky Lewis, Jr., Javon Lewis, Johnelle Smith, Joelle Smith, Joseph Smith, Marcus Carter, David Zenon, Jr., Tyler Zenon; great nephew, Harlem Carter; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Margaret is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Charles Smith and Bessie L. Smith; brother, James O’neal Chaisson, Sr.; maternal and paternal grandparents, aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Sibille Funeral Home in Grand Coteau. The rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. by Deacon Darrell Burleigh.

Pallbearers will be David Zenon, Jr., Tyler Zenon, Marcus Carter, Johnelle Smith, Chris Monroe, Joseph Charles, Lovie Lucky and Dione Mayfield. Honorary pallbearers will be Ricky Lewis, Sr., Jamal Chaisson, James Chaisson, Ethan Roberts, John Sam, Keith Lewis, Adolph Marks and Harry Mayfield.

Margaret's radiance and warmth will be truly missed, as we reflect on the incredible life she led, we find comfort in the profound impact she made and the love she shared unconditionally. Margaret M. Smith will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of those who loved her.

Words of Comfort to the family may be expressed at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sibille Funeral Home of Grand Coteau.