Merita M. Smith

CARBONDALE - Merita M. Smith, age 89, of Carbondale passed away Friday, October 16, 2026 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Merita was born on April 16, 1937. She married Arvel Lee Smith on December 24, 1957 in Gulf Port, Mississippi. He preceded her in death on April 24, 2016.

Merita was a shining light in the lives of her family, fiercely devoted to caring for her children and grandchildren. Her unwavering love for the Lord guided her throughout her life and shaped the values she imparted to her family. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Carterville. Merita was a remarkable woman who created a home filled with warmth and love. Her strength, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family served as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Survivors include her daughter, Tina (Mike) Rumsey; son, James Lee Smith; grandchildren, Josh (Katie) Rumsey, Kyle (Macey) Rumsey; great-grandchildren, Hartlan and Rylan Rumsey; sister, Dean Hensarling; many nieces and nephews; and the Alaskan Group that was very close to her heart.

She is preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Brice Rumsey; brothers, Donnie, Arnold "Pud" Lee, and Bobby Smith.

Funeral services for Merita will be held at 12:00p.m. on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale with Pastor Ryan Tacktey officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00am until the time of service on Wednesday. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Memorial Park, Murphysboro. 

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Carterville. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

To share a story or memory of Merita, visit www.meredithfh.com