Mary Lou Smith

Mary Lou Smith, age 88 of Battle Creek, and formerly of Athens, passed away on December 16, 2025 at Reflections Memory Care. She was born on June 1, 1937 in Athens, Michigan, the daughter of Marcus and Mary (Lucas) Prough. Mary graduated Valedictorian of Athens High School, class of 1955. Mary moved from Athens to Battle Creek in 1956. She previously worked in food service for Harper Creek Schools, and as a bookkeeper for Athens Schools, Jerry's Marathon Station, and Carquest retiring in 2003. Mary was an avid gardener and cook. She also enjoyed camping, babysitting, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was united in marriage on July 1, 1956 to Gerald “Jerry” Smith at the Athens Congregational Church, he survives. Also surviving are her sons; Denis (Susan) Smith of St. Petersburg, FL., David (Wendy) Smith of Battle Creek, daughter in law; Susan Smith of Battle Creek, seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, son, Douglas Smith, brothers, Richard, Clinton and Leonard Prough, sisters, Wanda Snyder, and Betty Wright. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025 at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Funeral service scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the funeral home, Rev. Rick Foster of Country Chapel Church officiating. Interment will follow the service at Burr Oak Cemetery, Athens. Memorial contributions in Mary’s memory may be made to Country Chapel Church. Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org