June 4, 2021, 52, La Grange –
Malissa Gail Matthews Smith passed away Friday, June 4, 2021. She was born in Pensacola, Florida to Lorita Christina Fulghum and the late Franklin Mervin Matthews on February 3, 1969. In addition to her father, Missy was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Ray Smith; son, Gage Smith; and sister, Donna Grant.
From the time Missy was a child, she was an adventurist. She would take a snake by the tail and bring it home to her mother for keeping. She lived life without fear and always looking for the chance to help someone in need. Whether you asked or not, if Missy knew you needed help, she was there to offer it. First, though, she was going to tell you to “pray about it.”
With a faith that could move mountains, Missy believed in the power of prayer and practiced it daily. She enjoyed the teaching of Pastor Joel Osteen and included it in her daily routine. Her relationship with God was first and foremost in her life. MIssy liked to dance and jammed out to her favorite 80’s rock music often. She was opinionated, but still full of care.
Missy was an avid collector of teddy bears. The “safest” Christmas gift that would never disappoint was a bear for her collection. Missy loved Christmas and enjoyed decorating. From October to December you could find her decorating from the mailbox to the house. She had to have the biggest tree and the most Christmas lights.
Of all the things Missy loved, it was her family she loved best. A loving daughter, dependable mother, and proud grandmother, Missy’s life was all about family. Her grandbabies were the apples of her eye and the light in her eyes. Grandma B or “B Rascals” as she was lovingly referred, took the most pleasure in spoiling her grands. Her children and grandchildren will carry her legacy forward and always hold her in their hearts.
A service to honor and celebrate Missy’s beautiful life will be held Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at 6 p.m. in the chapel of Rouse Funeral Home. Her family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 5-5:45 p.m. before the service.
Missy is survived by her mother, Lorita Fulghum; daughters, Shannon Herring and husband, Tyler, and Tabatha Smith and husband, Justin Barwick; the reasons for her smile, her grandchildren, Malachi Whaley, Douglas Whaley, Jr., Camden Whaley, Colton Bright, Harper Barwick, and Kylie Herring; sister, Michelle Johnson; special uncle, Tommy Goodman; special nephew, Daniel Grant; best friend, Tammy Mooring;, and friend, David House.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
