Mary Elizabeth Lawson Smith was born on Wednesday, June 28, 1944, to Mary Magdalene Lawson and Speight Lawson. She was the middle child and last surviving sibling of her family. She was preceded in death by her brother, Major Lawson, and sister, Flossie Rivers.
Mary was educated in the Seminole County school system and attended Crooms Academy. After high school, she attended Florida Memorial University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Education. She later dedicated more than 30 years of service to the Orange County Public School System as an elementary school teacher at Phyllis Wheatley Elementary and Hungerford Elementary School. Through her work, she helped shape the lives of many children with patience, wisdom, and care.
Mary was a devoted mother, aunt, grandmother, grand-aunt, and friend. Along with her mother, Mary Magdalene, she lovingly helped raise AuBroncee Martin (Telisha), Shemise Worrell, and Carlos Smith (Brandi). She also leaves to cherish her memory her nephew, Roosevelt Rivers Jr. (Natelie), her niece, Odessa Rivers, and many beloved grandchildren, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Mary transitioned on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Debary Health & Rehabilitation Center. She is now free from pain and resting peacefully in the arms of our Heavenly Father.
Her service will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:00 AM at the Second Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church located at 2150 W. Airport Blvd., Sanford, FL 32771.
June 28, 1944 - May 24, 2026
