Obituary of Mitsi Jean Smith

Mitsi Jean Smith, a beloved resident of Pitts Gap Mountain, passed away peacefully at her home on October 2nd, 2023. Her life was a rich narrative of love, dedication, and resilience. Born on November 6th, 1961, Mitsi was the cherished daughter of Melvin Smith and Shelba Johnson Smith. She grew up amidst the scenic beauty of the Pitts Gap area, where she developed deep roots and lasting connections with the community. Mitsi's journey through life was marked by her unwavering commitment to family, friendship, and hard work. After graduating from high school, she embarked on a career that would span over four decades, beginning in 1980 at the Chevron plant in Dayton, Tennessee. Despite the plant undergoing numerous ownership and name changes, Mitsi remained a loyal and steadfast employee at TenCate until her well-earned retirement in December 2020. In 2020, Mitsi was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a relentless degenerative disorder. Throughout her battle, she was surrounded by an outpouring of love and support from friends and family, both near and far. Her determination to savor life's moments was evident as she fought valiantly to prolong her time with us, primarily so she could indulge in her passion for seeing every TV show and movie ever made. Mitsi was more than a dedicated worker; she was a cherished mother, a loving partner, a trusted friend, and a beacon of laughter. Her home was always filled with the aroma of delicious meals she prepared with love and the sound of her infectious laughter. Reading was another of Mitsi's passions, and she voraciously devoured any book she could get her hands on. In her passing, Mitsi was reunited with her father, Melvin Smith, and her grandparents, Howard and Emma K. Smith and Lee Johnson and Lois Medley Johnson, all of whom preceded her in death. Mitsi leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her devoted son, Nicholas Smith, and daughter-in-law, Amy Grace Stokes, along with her beloved grand dogs, Mumford and Penny, all residing in Atlanta, Georgia. She is also survived by her loving sister, Lora McBride, and brother-in-law, Craig, as well as her closest friend and dedicated caregiver, Paul Scott. Her mother, Shelba Smith, two uncles, Leroy (Nancy) Smith and Howard Smith Jr., and aunts, Margarette (Charles) Ladd, Paulette Russell, Notie Cunningham, Caroletta (Marvin) Ray, Beulah (Bobby) Hudson, Brenda Smith, Barbara Smith, Nancy Smith, and Jewell Smith, all of whom reside in various parts of Tennessee, also cherish her memory. Mitsi's wide-reaching impact extended to countless cousins and friends from all walks of life, as well as her three amigos, Linda, Lisa, and Carol. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 11:00 am CDT at Hickory Grove Cemetery with Rev. Steve James officiating. Online condolences can be made at www.reedfamilyfh.com. Arrangements are by Putnam Reed Funeral Home, 1171 Main Street. Pikeville, TN. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 6th, 2023 from 5:00-8:00 pm CDT. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to the ALS Association. Mitsi's life and memory will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.