Gracie Pearl Neal Vernon Smith

Gracie Pearl Neal Vernon Smith, age 84, passed away peacefully at her residence in Jackson, Tennessee, on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Born on January 7, 1941, in Hayti, Missouri, Gracie led a life characterized by her unwavering faith, commitment to family, and her self-employment in marketing.

Gracie was a diligent graduate of West Tennessee Business College and went on to build a successful career in marketing. Her professional achievements, however, were only a part of the legacy she leaves behind. Gracie was known for her outgoing personality and her ability to bring a smile to those around her. She possessed a nurturing spirit and showed great care for others, always eager to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.

Gracie devoted much of her life to her faith, spending countless hours studying her Bible and actively participating in her church community. Whether it was teaching Sunday school or working with the widows of the church, having founded Angels in the Outfield an organization focused on individuals that had lost spouses. Her dedication to serving others was clearly reflected in her compassionate nature. She was a part of the following churches during her life, Faith Tabernacle, New Life Tabernacle, Calvary UPC of Jonesboro, AR, Henderson Church of God, Vernon’s Chapel and The Springs. She held many interests in her career including Vernon’s Employment Agency of Jonesboro, AR, Smith Flower Boutique, Stanley Home Products and Gracie’s Antiques and Collectibles. 

Gracie is survived by her loving family, including her son Bert Smith and wife Jessica; daughter Twana Quick and husband Charles; daughter Talida Rodgers and husband Dewayne; son Lance Smith and wife Angela; son Dustin Smith and wife Amy; and son Joey Smith and wife Tracy. In addition, she cherished her bond with her sister, Emma Jean Hall, her grandchildren, Mike Smith, Craig Quick, Victoria Smith, Chase Quick, (Sarah) Chance Smith (Molly), Bethany Hoopingarner (Brandon), Breanna Rodgers (Spencer), Riley Davis (Ailyss), Aniston Smith, Brooklyn Smith, Alyssa Smith, Landon Smith, Micah Smith, Asher Smith, Elias Smith and Hannah Smith; great-grandchildren, Carter Smith, Mason Smith, Chad Smith, Taylor Smith, Cooper Smith, Mia Smith. Beau Davis, Annie Riley, Carsten Quick, Benjamin Hoopingarner, Bentley McCaughan and Baby Quick.

Gracie was preceded in death by her husband, Joe David Smith, as well as her parents, Martin Kelly and Eliza Glidwell Neal, a son, David Smith, a granddaughter, Jessica Smith, her siblings, Doug Neal, Mattie Harrington, Sam Neal, Ethel Summler, Lois Neal, Carl Neal, Barbara King and Sonny Neal.

SERVICES: A funeral service honoring Gracie’s life will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors. Burial will follow in Ridgecrest Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, beginning at 5:00 p.m. and continuing until 7:00 p.m. at Arrington Funeral Directors.

Her grandchildren will serve as pallbearers for the service.

Gracie Pearl Neal Vernon Smith will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, leaving behind a legacy rich in love, faith, and kindness.

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