Linda Ann Barnes Smith died peacefully at home in Pearl, MS on December 16th at the age of 78.
Linda is survived by one daughter Mary Kathleen Reynolds and her wife, Margaret from Pearl, MS; also survived by her son, Robert Bird Smith Jr. and his wife Miriam of Clinton, MS. Linda is survived by her brother, William Barnes and his wife Pat of Murfreesboro, TN. She is proud to be the Grandmother aka "Granny" to Bridgette McCleer and daughter Rylee of Columbus, MS., Elizabeth Sydnie-Ann Reynolds and sons Kyler & Waylon of Florence, MS, Kirstie B Reynolds of Hamilton. MS., Richard B Smith of Clinton, MS and Jacob Smith of Clinton, MS. She is preceded in death by her Mother and Father; William and Kathleen Barnes, and her loving and dedicated husband, Robert Bird Smith. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Linda was born on August 23, 1942 in Birmingham, AL. to William and Kathleen Barnes. She attended West End High School in Birmingham, AL and later attended The University of Alabama. Linda met the love of her life, Bob Smith, through a blind date set up by one of his sorority brothers. They married in October of 1962. They settled in Mobile, AL and had Kathy in 1970 and Robert in 1972. They moved to Spanish Fort, AL in 1977. After several years in Spanish Fort the family moved to Clinton, MS. She and Bob built a home in Raymond, MS 20 years ago, and that is where she spent the majority of her life.
Linda was accomplished stained glass artist as well as pen & ink. Some of her work appears in The Church of the Creator in Clinton, MS and Saint Mark's Episcopal Church in Raymond, MS. Linda was the epitome of a true southern lady. She was passionate about entertaining and hosting countless parties with her husband Bob, filled with laughter, fun and so much love. Her home was always welcoming and warm. She went above and beyond for church and charities that she supported. She was an individual who was loved dearly by her family and friends. All of Linda's grandchildren made her extremely proud of all their accomplishments in life. Linda held countless tea parties with her great grand-daughter Rylee. Shared many fishing expeditions with the boys and always shared so many laughs with them all. Linda was always the proud Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Many memories where made in her art studio with all of the kids.
Linda carried so many friendships from wherever she lived. So many beautiful memories they made! Her art was her passion and shared by many a friend. She touched each person with laughter and love. She was loyal and true to her family and her friends. She was a wonderful wife to Bob and a perfect partner for Bob. Her home was always one of those places that each guest felt at home. Her southern hospitality was always shown because her joy, was always the center.
Linda was an active and dedicated member of Saint Marks Episcopal Church. She was also member of The Clinton Garden Club for many years.
A graveside service is scheduled for 2:00 pm, Tuesday December 22nd, at the Raymond Cemetery in Raymond, MS. Rev. Robert Blanton pastor of The Episcopal Church of the Creator in Clinton, MS will officiate the ceremony. Due to Covid-19 we are restricting the service to family and a few close friends. Please follow all State guidelines if attending service.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Mississippi Children's Museum at 2145 Museum Blvd, Jackson, MS 39202 or you can visit their website at www.mschildrensmuseum.org to make an online donation. Linda loved to teach art to any young person. She loved to watch them grow and explore in the arts. The family would like to thank Sta-Home for all their efforts, care, and dedication to Linda in her time of need.