Margaret A. Smith

Margaret A. Smith 1937 - 2025
Margaret A. Smith, a beacon of kindness and selflessness, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, at Claiborne Health & Rehab. Born on August 16, 1937, in New Tazewell, Tennessee, Margaret's life was a testament to her passion for service and her unwavering dedication to her family and community.
Margaret, affectionately known by all as just that, was a woman whose actions spoke louder than words. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Joseph Smith, who shared her commitment to family and community. Together, they created a legacy of love and caring that will live on through their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Margaret's parents, Clarence and Ava Lee Shumate, as well as her siblings Robert Clarence Shumate, Jr., John William Shumate, James Allen Shumate, Dan Carson Shumate, Zola Mae Shumate Coffey, and Helen Sue Shumate Wise, preceded her in death, leaving behind a tapestry of memories and shared moments.
Margaret's spirit is carried on by her loving sons, David Smith and his wife Connie, Mark Smith, and her cherished daughter, Cynthia Samples. Her grandchildren, Bailey Simpson and her husband Jaren, Kristin Thornsbury and her husband Bradly, and Brooklyn Samples, will remember her for the lessons of compassion and integrity she instilled in them. Her great-grandchildren, Everleigh and Ezekiel Thornsbury, will grow up hearing stories of their great-grandmother's boundless love and generosity. Margaret is also survived by her brother, Robert Glen Shumate, and sister, Ellie Shumate Gordon, along with several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and innumerable friends who were touched by her warmth and kindness.
During her years at Greene Florist in Morristown, Tennessee, Margaret delivered not just flowers, but also joy and comfort to countless individuals. Her tenure as a telephone operator during the Vietnam War showcased her persistence and dedication to connecting service members with their families, a noble service that eased the worries of many during a time of uncertainty. Margaret's work ethic and devotion to helping others were the hallmarks of her professional life.
A faithful member of Lone Mountain Baptist Church, Margaret lived her faith through action. She was very active in the March of Dimes, where she championed the cause with zeal and inspired others to join her in making a difference. Her involvement in the church and the March of Dimes was not just a pastime but a reflection of her commitment to serving those in need. Her compassion for helping others was also evident with her volunteer work as a Pink Lady at the hospital.
Those who knew Margaret were blessed to witness her kind-hearted nature and her passionate involvement in the lives of those around her. She was a woman who gave without expecting anything in return, and her legacy is one of selfless love and tireless advocacy for the well-being of others.
Margaret A. Smith's journey through life was one of purpose and impact. As we bid her farewell, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with moments of joy, unwavering support, and an abundance of love.
The Family will receive friends Saturday April 5, 2025 from 10 am till 12:00 pm in the Claiborne ~ Overholt Funeral Home Chapel. The graveside service to follow after visitation at the Fairview Cemetery with the Rev. Lawrence Fultz officiating.
Pallbearers: Bradly Thornsbury, Jaren Simpson, Matthew Thornsbury, Randall Meyers Jr., Winston Meyers, Devin Booth,
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