Shirley Ann Smith

Shirley Ann Smith was born on January 16, 1939, in Owenton, Kentucky, and passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on March 14, 2026, in Lexington, Kentucky, surrounded by her family.

Shirley brought warmth and sweetness into the lives of everyone around her. She was known for her homemade candy, especially her peanut butter fudge and the mints she made for weddings. She had a special fondness for McDonald’s apple pie and found joy in playing Rook, watching NASCAR and cheering for Dale Earnhardt, Sr., camping, growing flowers, listening to old country music, and watching Southland Christian Church on television. Above all, she treasured her role as Mamaw and cherished having her family together, particularly during the Christmas dinners she loved to host.

She is survived by her children, Deborah A. (James) Garrison and Jeffrey (Melinda) Smith, and her daughter-in-law, Cynthia Smith Carter. Her grandchildren, Crystal Ann Garrison (Seth) Darnell, Patrick (Danielle) Smith, Samantha Jean (Kyle) Bibb, Zachary (Elizabeth) Smith, and Miranda Smith (Noah) Webster, along with her eight great-grandchildren, were a constant source of pride and joy. She also leaves behind her siblings, Joyce Lathrem, Donald (Janis) Slaughter, and Donna Sue (Jan) Oakes.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Pearl Gaines and Justine Carter Gaines Slaughter; her husband, W.T. Smith; her son, William K. Smith; her great-granddaughter, Piper Grace Bibb; and her sisters, Pauline, Lorena, and Stella. She will be remembered for her loving heart, her delicious treats, and the quiet joy she found in family and life’s simple pleasures. Her legacy of love and togetherness will live on in all who knew and loved her.