Mary Louise Smith

Mary Louise Smith was born on April 1, 1919 in Maybinton, South Carolina to Young Gladney Sr. and Bessie (Alston) Gladney. There were five siblings; Carrie, Lydia, Estelle, Wallace, and Junior all who preceded her in death. In 1940, she married Julius Smith (JB) in Anderson, South Carolina. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Detroit Michigan. To this union they had two sons, Julius (Skeet) and Gary (Bay) who both preceded her in death.

Louise was dedicated to her family and loved her children. Louis was very active in the neighborhood as she mothered over all the children on the block on 16th street. In her early years, she attended cosmetology school. She also worked at a local bakery and restaurant while living in Detroit. After the passing of her husband JB in 1987, she relocated to South Carolina to care for her Mother. While in South Carolina she confessed her faith and joined Seekwell Baptist Church.

Louise, who everyone called “Lou” was very generous with her time. Her home was always open to everyone in the family. Lou loved good conversations and was the mother of the neighborhood. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to everyone. She would welcome you in her home for a good meal or a place to stay. She loved being around young people and kept up with all of the family’s current news! She used slang like the young people. She was always up for good laughs, parties and enjoying her family. Lou enjoyed Motown music, including Brooke Benton, and the Manhattans. Lou loved to cook and bake and share her good cooking. Grandma Lou was fond of the lemon merengue pie, city folk corn beef sandwiches, country folk neck bones, Motor City Soul Food, and Baby Ruth chocolate bars.

Lou made an impression on everyone she met. Every member of the family has a fond memory of the times she spent with them. After living many years in South Carolina, she returned to Detroit in 2015 where she was cared for by her family and daughter-in law Myrtis. During these years, she would continue to enjoy spending time with her great-grandchildren including “AJ” who brought her great joy!

Louise made her transition from this earth on December 31, 2020. She leaves to cherish her memory a loving daughter-in-law Myrtis of the home, 5 grandchildren, Dallas (Daisy), Ida (Duane), Antonio, Maletia, and Julia. 15 great-grandchildren, Michael, Feraud, Darius, Matthew, Dahlia, Jordan, Malik, Nazir, Haile, Albany, Antonella, Jeremy, Devan Quianna, Desmond. 5 great-great grandchildren, Asia, Elisha, Devon Jr., Tamaya, Amir, Lanea, Serenity, and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.