Marie Elaina Smith

Marie Elaina Smith obituary, Battle Creek, MI

Marie Elaina Smith

Marie Smith Obituary

Visit the Family First Funeral & Cremations Services - Marcellus website to view the full obituary.

Marie Elaina Smith, a loving and caring soul, passed away on March 3, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, at the age of 60. Born on March 13, 1965, in Lansing, Michigan, Marie was known for her generosity and her willingness to help those in need, often expressing that she would give the shirt off her back if it meant supporting someone.

Marie dedicated herself to her family, finding immense joy in being a grandmother to her ten grandchildren: Cruz, Ryleigh, Blaze, Gage, Gabriel, Lucia, Drake, Liam, Elaina and Piper . Her proudest accomplishments were rooted deeply in the love she had for her grandkids and the time she cherished with them. She enjoyed crocheting, often working on creating blankets for her grandchildren, a testament to her heartfelt devotion.

In addition to her family-centered life, Marie had various interests that brought her enjoyment. She loved to get her nails done whenever she had the chance. She found entertainment in murder mystery shows and was an avid viewer of "90 Day Fiancé" and its spinoffs, along with keeping up with the local news, watching NASCAR specifically for Tony Stewart, and a life long Detroit Lions fan. When cleaning or during treatments you could catch her listening to Ozzy Osborne & Eminem.

Marie is survived by her three children: Jennifer & Caine Trimlett, Jacob & Jessica Woodman, and Nicole Stewart. She also leaves behind her brother, Bill Smith (Mary Kansorka) her sister, Tammi Strouse; and additional family members Jimmy Spinney, Jim Smith, Kim Berns, Radeane Thomas, and Nanette Kline. A close friend, Chelsea Woodman, also mourns her loss.

Marie was preceded in death by her father Frederick Spinney and her mother Charlene Wing, as well as her best friend Lillian Caussade. Her legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will live on in the hearts of all those who knew her, particularly her family, who will carry forward the principles she exhibited throughout her life. Marie will be deeply missed, but her spirit will always remain a guiding light for her loved ones. Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Make a Donation
in Marie Smith's name

How to support Marie's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Marie Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more