Mary Alice Ferrell Smith

Mary Alice Ferrell Smith, born on July 16, 1933, to John Reburn Ferrell and Edna Floyd, peacefully departed this world, leaving a legacy stitched from love, resilience, and grace. Raised on a farm as a sharecropper's daughter, Mary learned early that strength is quiet and dignity is earned through hard work and compassion.
From her youth, she laboured with purpose-cleaning homes, caring for families, and offering comfort to anyone in need. Her empathy was unmatched. She listened not just with her ears, but with her heart. Her follow-up calls, wise counsel, and gentle presence made her a true friend and a quiet force in the lives of many.
Mary's journey led her to marry Master Sergeant Arthur Olan Smith, and together they welcomed their beloved son, Michael, at Fort Knox Hospital. Though life's path shifted, Mary walked it with courage. As a single Mother in a time when society offered little grace to women raising children alone, she defied expectations. She lived by her own rhythm, raising Michael with fierce love and unwavering devotion.
Her career with Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation brought her to Macon, Georgia, where she retired after 30 years of service. Not wanting to sit still she continued her journey at John Wesley Villa, an assisted living facility for 22 years becoming a cherished figure known for her vibrant spirit and ability to brighten any room.
Mary's love for music was electric. Concerts were her sanctuary, and melodies her medicine. She felt deeply-your pain was her pain-and she carried the nickname "worrywart" with pride, a reflection of her boundless care for others, always giving, and always loving. In her final chapter, Mary was tenderly taken care of by her son, Michael, who knew it was his time to leave Atlanta to return the love she had so freely given. Together, they created more moments that will echo in his heart forever. Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Reburn and Edna Ferrell, her siblings Mickey Patterson, Charles Ferrell, and Isabell Garnett.
She is survived by her devoted son, Michael Smith, and her cherished sister Eula Drane of Henderson.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, strength, and unwavering love. She walked softly through this world with grace in her step and kindness in her hands. Her light remains; in every heart she warmed.
Funeral service will be Friday, Nov 7, 2025 at St. Ann Catholic Church in Morganfield, KY. Fr. Freddie Byrd will officiate. Visitation will be 5-7 PM Thursday and 9-10 AM Friday at Whitsell Funeral Home in Morganfield, KY. Burial will be in St. Ann Cemetery.