Long-Time Staff Member Marilyn Smith Passes; Funeral Today

Photo Submitted

Marilyn Smith

Long-time University of Arkansas staff member Marilyn J. Smith, age 63, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 27, 2019, at home in Fayetteville. She was born on Feb. 22, 1956, in Shamrock, Texas, to the late Manna Q. and Helen (Simon) Johnson.

She was a 1974 graduate of Gilmer High School in Gilmer, Texas. She married Cornelious Smith on June 19, 1974. To this union 3 children were born.  She went on to Kilgore Junior college and graduated with an AB in Secretarial Sciences in 1976. 

She moved to Fayetteville the following summer and accepted a position with the University of Arkansas where she continued to work for 43 years. During that time she was blessed with another child and continued to thrive and rise until she achieved the position of assistant to the dean of students. She has helped produce four decades of educators, health professionals and student leaders.  

"She was honest, funny, sharp, caring, and jubilant. When my brain was tangled in the mess of a particular student issue, she had a way of clearing the vines and thorns so I could see the path," said Judd Harbin, former assistant dean of students at the University of Arkansas. "She was a trusted and beloved colleague."

"During the 1980s, Marilyn was the secretary for the special education program. She was the very best support person I have had in my 30 plus years in higher education," said Tom Smith, University of Arkansas professor of special education. "She always had a smile on her face and made everyone around her happy. She will be missed by all of us who knew her." 

"She was smart, compassionate, funny, honest, beautiful and full of life. She was my ace. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, wife and friend," said Aisha Kenner, who worked with Smith in the Dean of Students Office. "I learned so much from her. Watching her allowed me to learn, grow and develop in my professional role and in my role as a mother. She taught me without even knowing it. She provided a wonderful example of grace and love. I will forever remember and miss her."

"Marilyn's encyclopedic knowledge of our university was eclipsed only by her warmth and compassion," said Melissa Harwood-Rom, University of Arkansas dean of students. "The number of students, parents, faculty, and staff that she impacted is inestimable. She was the heart, soul, and smiling face of the Dean of Students Office and the Division of Student Affairs."

Marilyn was a faithful member of St. James Baptist Church. She taught Sunday School and served in the Audio/Visual Department.

Preceding her in death was one son, Justin Lynn Smith.

Survivors include her husband, Cornelious Smith; daughter, Wendy Moss; son, William Simon Cornelious Smith (Trey); three granddaughters, Kiyah Moss, Mariyah Moss and Zaniyah Moss-Rainey, all of Fayetteville; her mother, Helen Johnson of Gilmer, Texas; three sisters, Lula, Eleanor and Aundria; two brothers, Manuel and Michael; and a slew of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Whether at home, work, or church, Marilyn nourished those around her with her kindness and soft strength.  

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today, Friday, May 3, at St. James Baptist, 764 W. North St., Fayetteville, AR 72701.

Interment will be in Gilmer, Texas.