1926
2021
Mary Ann Smith, age 95, passed away on November 22, 2021. She was born on September 27, 1926 in Grapeland, Texas; the oldest of two children born to John Speer Darsey and Ora Gainey Darsey. Mary Ann grew up in a small town with her grandparents, aunts, uncles and numerous cousins.
She excelled in all subjects in school, including music and was the Salutatorian of class at Grapeland High School. She went on to receive her Bachelors in Music from North Texas University and taught Elementary Music and children's church choir in Alvin, Texas. She also taught at Crockett Intermediate before finishing her career in Conroe after teaching at Anderson and Sam Houston Elementary. She was a proud member of the Retired Teachers Association of Montgomery County.
Raised in a family of faith, she was a lifelong and charter member of Grapeland United Methodist Church and a 62-year member of the First United Methodist Church of Conroe. Mary Ann was also the family historian and contributed to several books and helped many family members trace and know their history.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John Speer Darsey and Ora Gainey Smith, and her sister, Mattie Lee Smith. She is survived by her children, Randy Smith, Julie Shelton and Gretchen Luellen and husband Gregg; grandchildren, Chas Shelton, Cullen Shelton, Carrie Anderson and husband Clint, Cailan Shelton, Leslie Esquivel and husband Cris, Kelly Smith, Jackson Smith and wife Mercedes, Tori Smith, Garett Luellen and Darsey Luellen; and great grandchildren, Cheyenne Anderson, Caydi Anderson, Coye Anderson, Beckett Smith, Mai Esquivel and Daniel Esquivel.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Monday, November 29, 2021 at First Methodist Conroe, 4308 W Davis Street, Conroe, Texas 77304. Graveside services and burial will follow at 2:30 pm in the Grapeland City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Methodist Children's Home or to the American Red Cross.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
I just learned of Mrs. Smiths passing She was always so nice even when teaching me piano which had to be a challenge She will be dearly missed
Chris Baughman
November 30, 2021
What a joy and privilege my husband and I received when we met Mary Ann several years ago. Although she and my father were first cousins, she was 20 years younger and lived in Texas, while our family was in Georgia. We felt such an instant connection with both Mary Ann and Gretchen who was with her at the time. It has been my joy to correspond with Mary Ann often since then. She has been an absolute delight as well as so helpful with the Darcy genealogy. Her great joy and enthusiasm for life as well as her remarkable intelligence will be very dear memories for us.
Our hearts go out to each of you in your loss of one so dear. With our love, Clara and Bobby Johnston
Clara Nutt Johnston
November 29, 2021
We spent many Sundays together as we shared the same Sunday school class. We met when the new church was built, so had known her for many years.
Such a devoted grandmother and Christian friend, she blessed all who knew her. We are better for having this incredible lady in our lives.
Love and peace to her family.
Melisa Walling
Other
November 29, 2021
I new Mrs. Smith through Randy her son. She was a remarkable lady and single mom. Her smile said everything. She will truly be missed. My condolences to Randy, Julie and Gretchen.
Ray Walding
November 25, 2021
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