Jimmie Neal Smith

Jimmie Neal Smith was born in Chester County, Tennessee the daughter of the late Clyde and Ina Hill Busby.



Mrs. Smith obtained her early education in Chester County, Tennessee. She was united in marriage to Dr. Montie Earl Smith, Jr. on April 18, 1962. After marriage, she and Dr. Smith made their home in Selmer. Mrs. Smith was employed by Brown Shoe Company for many years before deciding to pursue a career in nursing. She graduated from Union University in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. After her two sons completed their education, Mrs. Smith attended Vanderbilt University, graduating in 1989 with a Masters of Science Degree in Nursing. She fulfilled her nursing career with Western Mental Health Institute in Bolivar, where she served as Director of Nursing and Director of Nurse Training. While employed with Western Mental Health, Mrs. Smith was recognized as the J. C. Penny Volunteer of the Year, as well as the Western Mental Health Institute Volunteer of the Year. She had many passions in life in which she took great pleasure. Her immaculate gardens were lovingly tended, and she enjoyed sewing, quilting, and needlework. Antiques held a special fascination for her; she particularly enjoyed collecting and restoring furniture. Her travels carried her far and near, from Russia to Florida; Gatlinburg, Tennessee and Estes Park, Colorado were two of her favorite destinations. Above all, she loved and enjoyed her family and friends, always expressing an interest in their lives and concern for their well-being.



Mrs. Smith departed this life on October 30, 2010 at her home in Selmer, Tennessee, surrounded by her family. She is survived by two sons, Dennis Austin and wife Joy of Jackson, TN and Danny Austin and wife Vanita of Guys, TN; three grandchildren: John Austin and wife Katie of Selmer, TN, Emily (Austin) Thompson and husband Andrew of Durham, NC, and Elizabeth Austin of Jackson, TN; three great-grandchildren: Jayden Danielle Austin, Alli Claire Austin, and Alice Elizabeth Thompson; a brother, Billy Busby and wife Kathy of Henderson, TN; a brother-in-law, Dr. James Hagy Smith of Selmer, TN; a special friend, Taylor Harris of Mercer, TN; several nieces and nephews; and many extended family and friends.



In addition to her parents, Mrs. Smith was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Montie Earl Smith, Jr.; a grandchild, Daniel Austin; and a brother, D. C. Busby.