Marian D. Smith - Obituary

arian D. Smith April 30, 1955 - August 19, 2023 Marian Denise Simmons Smith was born the first of three children to the late COL (Ret.) Jerry A. Simmons II, and the late Lula M. Simmons on April 30, 1955, in Heidelberg, Germany. Her parents knew she would be a force to be reckoned with as she arrived into the world a few months early, but her will to live never faltered. As a proud Army Brat, Marian blossomed at various military bases around the United States, but the heart of this baton-twirling majorette was always at home with her family in Miami and Cocoa, Florida. Following her graduation from Howard University with a Master's Degree in Dental Hygiene and Human Development, Marian embarked on a journey as an educator, dedicating herself to nurturing young minds. For more than two decades, she thrived as a dental hygienist, ensuring the oral health of numerous patients. Later, she embraced the role of a small business owner and a university recruitment administrator, ushering hundreds of students through academic loopholes, helping them realize their academic aspirations. She married and birthed her only child, who she poured life, love, and joy into as a single mother. After retiring, she became a compassionate caregiver for both of her parents and faithfully sought to ease the burdens of the elderly in the community. For 19 years, Marian cared for her mother as she navigated the turbulent waters of Alzheimer's Disease. Marian found strength in the Lord as a member of Reid Temple AME Church, and she later studied to become a practicing Reiki Master, Meditation, Breathwork, and Shaman Energy Healer. She loved nature and was known for her ability to make absolutely anything grow. Marian was magically creative and enjoyed crafting, entertaining, gardening, coloring, painting, cooking, and creating thoughtful mementos for family and friends. Her smile could light up entire cities and her warm, bubbly personality turned strangers into friends while indulging her love for traveling. Marian was happiness, sparkles, adventure, laughter, grace, beauty, and strength. Marian was Love. After being a 4-year Ovarian Cancer survivor, Marian Smith danced majestically into the sunrise of the hereafter on August 19, 2023.She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Tiffany Nicole Smith; two siblings, Angela Renee Simmons and Jerry Alfred Simmons III; an uncle, Frederick Simmons; an aunt, Gloria Simmons; several lovingly devoted cousins; and some of the best and most loyal friends on this side of creation. Per Marian's request, there will be no funeral. She hopes to be remembered as a radiant reflection of God's love by all those who knew and loved her. Since her spirit has returned to the Almighty, a Celebration filled with happiness and gratitude will be held as her ashes are returned to the earth in Sedona, Arizona. During her final, precious years, Marian was able to find comfort and community amongst fellow cancer survivors at HopeWell Cancer Support. In lieu of gifts and flowers, please consider making a donation to this organization that provides free services to cancer survivors, those still navigating their journey, as well as their families. https://www.hopewellcancersupport.org/donate