Ramona Jean "Mona" Smith

Ramona "Mona" Jean Smith, lovingly known by many as Monie or Aunt Mo Mo, was

born July 11, 1961, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and passed away on March 16, 2026, in

Yazoo, Mississippi. She spent her entire life in the state she cherished, surrounded by

the people and places that shaped her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Shirley Abercrombie; her husband,

Ron Smith; her younger brother, Danny; and her beloved dog, Bear, who was always

close by.

Mona is survived by her siblings, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond: her

oldest sister Phyllis and husband Wayne Spiers; her younger brother Timmy; and her

baby sister Amy and husband Jason Schandel. Time with them-laughing, crafting,

talking, or simply being together-was one of the greatest joys of her life.

She leaves behind her three children, who were the center of her world: daughter Nikki

and husband Rodney Leon Guerrero; daughter Shelly and husband Clay Alford; and

son Justin and wife Mallory Rushing. She was blessed with nine grandchildren and one

greatgrandchild, John Calvin Brown.

Mona lived life on her own terms-straightforward, nonsense, and unafraid to speak

her mind. She loved a good time, loved her people fiercely, and carried a spirit that was

both strong and deeply warm. Being a mother and wife was her greatest joy and the

most meaningful roles of her life.

A gifted gardener, Mona found peace and purpose with her hands in the dirt. Gardening

connected her to the earth, to her roots, and to the women who came before her-her

mother and grandmother, who taught her to love growing things. She especially

cherished her angel trumpet plant, a gift from her brother Danny, and she filled her

world with petunias, zinnias, and gladiolas, tending them with the same care she gave

to the people she loved.

She was also an accomplished crocheter and cross stitcher, pouring her creativity into

blankets, keepsakes, and special pieces for her kids and grandchildren. Gardening and

crafting were her happiest outlets, and she shared that joy generously.

A celebration of her life will take place at her residence in Lumberton, MS on Saturday,

March 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.