Mary Michelle Furr Smith, 48, peacefully passed away at her home on Thursday, August 8, 2024. Born in McComb, MS, on July 4, 1976, to Charles Earl Furr and Jean Quinn Furr, Michelle was a proud Brookhaven Academy graduate, Class of 1994. Known affectionately as "Firecracker," a nickname that reflected her bicentennial birthday and her fiery, never-give-up spirit, Michelle brought joy and energy wherever she went.
Michelle’s greatest joy came from being a devoted wife and mother. She relished every moment spent raising her two young sons and took immense pride in her role at home. Her affection for her pets: Miss Kitty and Miss Dixie, the cats, Lani the dog, and her pig, Sir Oinks A Lot, was a testament to her warm and loving nature. When she wasn’t tending to their animals, Michelle could often be found in her garden or behind the lens of her camera, capturing the nature and beauty of their land.
Michelle's bravery extended beyond her family and friends. She became a beacon of hope and inspiration at the University of Mississippi Medical Cancer Center. Her participation in research trials for brain cancer was marked by an extraordinary spirit that even inspired her oncologist to remain in the field rather than switch careers. Michelle's courage and determination were truly inspiring, and her humor and zest for life were contagious.
She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Earl Furr, and her father-in-law, Philip Eugene Smith Sr., as well as other cherished family members who will be celebrating her spirit from afar.
Michelle leaves behind her loving husband of 29 years, Philip Eugene Smith Jr.; her sons, Cason Lee Smith and Charles “Charlie” Elliott Smith; her mother, Jean Quinn Furr; her brother, Charles Brian Furr; her mother-in-law, Phyllis Smith Hobbs; her sister-in-law, Jennifer Smith Heffner; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her circle of friends was vast and filled with significant individuals fortunate to have shared in her life.
The family also extends heartfelt thanks to the Dignity Hospice team, especially nurses Amy Wiley, Kristi Wilson, Sherri Brooks, and Nova York, for their compassionate care.
Michelle’s vibrant and enduring spirit will continue to inspire and bring joy to those who knew her, and she will be dearly missed.
Funeral service is 1 p.m., Monday, August 12 at Riverwood Family with burial in Union Hall Cemetery. Visitation is from 11 a.m. until the time of the service.
