Martha Jean Smith

Martha Jean Smith of Ironton, Missouri was serenaded into Heaven on the Wings of Praise on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at the age of 81 years. She was born November 23, 1938 in Cherokee, Alabama the daughter of the late “Red” and Ida Mae (Wallace) Pilkinton. On November 2, 1957 She was united in marriage to Billy Joe Smith. They were the parents of six children; JoAnn Leitch and husband, Ray of Marionville, MO, Marie Laird of Arcadia, MO, Susie Reed and husband, Steve of Stella, MO, Billie Ricketts and husband, Joe of Caledonia, MO, John Smith and wife, Melanie of Belgrade, MO, and Timothy Michael Smith who preceded her in death. Martha is survived by four brothers: Chuck “Bud” Pilkinton and wife, Louise of Ironton, MO, Herb Pilkinton and wife, Marie of Greers Fairy, Arkansas, Kenneth Pilkinton and Larry Pilkinton both of Alabama, the two sisters: Esther Cross and husband, Vic of Iowa, and Martha “Tootsie” Smith and husband, Lee “L.C.” of Alabama, eighteen grandchildren, thirty-four great grandchildren, two more great grandchildren on the way, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents, husband, and son, Martha was preceded in death by her grandson, John Thomas Smith and granddaughter, Amy Elizabeth Kelly, great grandson, Samuel Andrew Roberts, and three brothers: Ed Pilkinton, Charlie Pilkinton, and Tom Pilkinton. Martha retired after 29 years of service to The Baptist Home where she worked as a C.N.A. She was a faithful member of Grace Christian Fellowship Church. Her family was the most important thing in her life, other than her Savior. Martha’s drive in life was to take care of others, but especially her family. She loved Jesus and would often encourage others to find comfort through Him. She never judged others and was a blessing to many. Martha also enjoyed gardening and had a green thumb. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Fellowship Church. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will be in Arcadia Valley Memorial Park. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.brysonfuneralhome.com. Bryson Funeral Home recommends that everyone in attendance practice social distancing and the wearing of face masks is recommended.