Obituary of Maratha Smith

To honor Maratha’s memory, we come together to celebrate a life full of joy, laughter, light and accomplishments.

Maratha Hall Smith entered the world to Beatrice Marshall and James H. Terry, Sr. in Natchez, MS, December 20, 1946.  She was reared by her Uncle and Aunt William and Lula Jones in Texarkana, TX.

Maratha professed her faith in Christ at an early age while attending Polly Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. After relocating to Houston, TX with her daughter and grandchildren in 2018, Maratha joined Family of Believers Church and continued her service.

Maratha was a proud graduate of Dunbar High School C/O 1965, Prairie View A&M University (Bachelor of Science Degree), and Texas A&M University-Texarkana (Masters of Science Degree). Maratha retired as an educator from Texas High School in Texarkana, TX.  Maratha was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Crowning Light #90 – Queen of Sheba Grand Chapter , as well as Lifetime Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Kappa Xi Omega Chapter. After her retirement she enjoyed traveling to spend time with her siblings, daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Maratha will always be remembered as loving and outgoing.  Her friends and family will remember her “Speak Your Mind” and the word “No” can be a full sentence”.  She was a person that refused to make excuses and would take charge of any situation.  Her confidence led her to speak her truth without hesitation.

Maratha’s transition was on January 10, 2023, at the age of 76.

Maratha leaves:

•Daughter: Cassandria Funches (Derrick W. Gaines)

•Grandchildren: Alvin J. Funches-Thomas, Breyana N. Mathis (Jocques Mathis)

•Great-Grandchildren: Marlee N. Funches-Thomas, Joseph B. Funches-Thomas

•Siblings: Alice Williams (Harry), Hattie Marie Terry-Lewis, Diana Terry-Porterfield, James Edward Terry, Donald Ray Terry (Kerrie)

Those that preceded her:

•Birth Parents: Beatrice Marshall and Lewis Henry Terry

•Parents: Will and Lula Jones

Siblings:  Pinkie Lou Buchanan, Lloyd Terry, Lillie Mae Terry, Gloria Jean Scott, Essie Mae Terry