Marlene Smith

Marlene Smith, 86, of Liberty, drifted off to sleep and was welcomed into Heaven on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

The only daughter of Albert Edwin and Irene Wilson Powell, Marlene was born on September 28, 1939, in Panola, Kentucky. The family moved, and she grew up in the College Corner area. Marlene married her true love, Ray Smith, on October 3, 1959, in New Trenton. Ray worked as much as he could so Marlene could stay home and take care of their children. She constantly placed the needs of her family before her own. From her Bible to her favorite books, Marlene was a woman of faith and an avid reader. She had a heart for animals and always had a plethora of creatures around her. Marlene enjoyed spending her spare time in her gardens tending to her vegetables, flowers, and wildlife that graced her with their presence. In the evenings, Marlene appreciated good black and white movies and older tv shows such as The Andy Grifith Show. Above all, Marlene loved her family, especially her husband. Her last words spoken about Ray were “I love him and I always have.” Though she is already missed, her family knows they will see her again one day.

In addition to her loving husband of sixty-six years, Ray, Marlene is survived by her children and their spouses: Danny and Patty Smith, Gary Smith, Debbie and Jim Peters; grandchildren: Sara, Jacob, Curtis, and Jessica along with her husband, Josh: great-grandchild: Jerald; many animal companions, extended family members, and friends.

Marlene is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Irene; brother: Myron Anderson Powell.

The funeral service for Marlene will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Fosdick Chapel, Liberty with Bishop Brandon Blevins officiating. Burial will immediately follow at College Corner Cemetery. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 12:00 p.m., until the time of service. Given Marlene’s love for animals, memorial contributions may be made to Liberty Acres United Rescue Animal Sanctuary in her honor.