Dortha Smith, affectionately known as Mamaw and Sissy, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, in Southaven, Mississippi, surrounded by the loving presence of her family. Born on May 6, 1939, in Lepanto, Arkansas, Dortha lived a life marked by unwavering love, steadfast honesty, and a generous spirit that touched all who knew her.

Dortha was a woman of remarkable strength and straightforwardness, blending blunt honesty with a tender heart. She was known for her tough love, always guiding her family with a firm but caring hand and an open heart. One of her enduring pleasures was generously creating embroidered linens for her family—a delicate craft that reflected her love of embroidery and sewing. Each stitch was a testament to the devotion she bore for those closest to her.

Throughout her life, Dortha was a devoted wife, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and great-grandmother. She delighted in sharing adventures with her beloved husband, Joseph Smith, as they traveled together, making memories that enriched their years. Though Joseph preceded her in death, Dortha’s spirit remained vibrantly alive in the lives of her children: Barry (Rachel) Smith, Cherry Pickering, and Cynthia Barnum. Her legacy blooms further through her grandchildren—John (Julie) Smith, Matt Abel, Jacob (Jane Claire) Abel, Mikey (Rachel) Smith, Nick Abel, Hannah (Hunter) Haswell, Robby (Kayla) Montgomery, Robin Sowell, Jenny (Chris) Freire, Sarah (Carlos) Hayes, and Deanna Billingsley—as well as an incredible family of 27 great-grandchildren who continue to celebrate her memory.

Dortha also cherished the close bonds with her siblings Joe (Margaret) Mattson, Marion Todd, Kitty Dunkle, and Donald Mattson. Though she was preceded in death by her parents, Clinton and Dorthy Mattson, and siblings Harry, Clinton, and Thomas Mattson, Dortha’s enduring legacy is found in the deep and abiding connections she maintained with her living family members and a host of other family and friends whose lives she touched.

A true matriarch, Dortha was proud of her flourishing family—her children and grandchildren were the cornerstone of her life’s greatest accomplishments. She nurtured life both in her family and in her garden, where she grew new color roses every year, symbolizing her ability to bring beauty and growth wherever she turned her nurturing hands.

Despite the challenges life brought, Dortha was always making a way for her loved ones, even when it seemed impossible. Her resilience and dedication were evident in her busy life, filled with care, love, and meaningful connections. Her personality was unmistakably genuine—loving and generous, yet never afraid to be honest and direct.

Services to honor Dortha Smith's life will be held at Heartland Church, located at 3580 Getwell Rd, Southaven, Mississippi. Visitation will take place on April 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Twin Oaks Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home, 290 Goodman Road East, Southaven, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Dortha’s journey on earth may have concluded, but her spirit, kindness, and the lessons she imparted on love, honesty, and generosity will forever be etched in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She leaves behind a tapestry of memories woven with love and strength, a lasting testament to a life well-lived. May she rest in peace, embraced by the same warmth and devotion she so freely gave.