Mary Smith

Mary Frances was born to Mr. Ashley Coley and Mrs. Cornelia Coley on September 11, 1947 in Albany, Georgia. She was the seventh child of eleven children. Mary Frances is proceeded in death by her parents, Mr. Ashley Coley and Mrs. Cornelia Coley, her husband James Lewis Smith, her son Lamont Smith, grandson Dewey LeFlore, sister Peggy Anne Cunningham, brothers David Coley, Allen Henry, Johnny Henry, and Joe Henry Lane. She attended Monroe Comprehensive High School where she was the top girls’ basketball player for the Tornadoes. Mary Frances was an honor student and well-liked among her peers. She was an excellent example as a leader and an outstanding fundraiser for her school. Her work showed her love for the Lord as a Sunday school teacher and Usher. Mary Frances always received many compliments on her attire and accessories. She was a fashionista of her time. She graduated from Monroe Comprehensive High School in 1965. Mary Frances married Mr. James Smith and welcomed a daughter April Denise Smith, and a son Lamont Smith. Her son Lamont preceded her in death shortly after birth. She enjoyed life as a homemaker after marriage and used her God-given entrepreneurial skills to earn extra money for her family. However, due to childhood illnesses, she became disabled and could not work outside the home. Her daughter innately received those talents and skills as she truly cherished her mother. Mary Frances would later move to Atlanta, Georgia to join her daughter and son-in-law. April and her husband were devoted to Mary Frances and cared for her until God called Mary Frances home. Mary Frances love as a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, was unwavering throughout her life. Being with her family gave her the greatest joy and happiness. Mary Frances passed away on May 3, 2024 at the blessed age of 76 after courageous battles with her declining health. Her strength and strong will testify to her strong faith and commitment to family. She was truly a pillar of strength as she endured health issues throughout the years. Mary Frances is survived by her daughter April LeFlore(Ronnie) of Stone Mountain, grandchildren Edward Daniels Jr, Ayonna LeFlore, and Desiree LeFlore. Great grandchildren London, Violet, Amarri, Amir, Elijah and Delauni. She is also survived by her sister Helen Henry of Albany, GA. Martha Mcknight of Albany, Ga., Dinella Jones (William) of Albany, Ga. Brothers Joseph Coley of Albany, Ga. and Elgia Coley (Alice) of Albany, Ga., and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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Mary Smith

September 11, 1947 - May 3, 2024