Mary Ella Jones Smith Recard

Mary Ella Jones Smith Recard
December 5, 1932 – August 15, 2026

With hearts filled with love and gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Mary Ella Jones Smith Recard celebrates her remarkable journey of 93 years.

Mary was born on December 5, 1932, in Bayou Rapides, Louisiana, to the late Willie Jones, Sr. and Mary Ella Pearson Jones. She was raised with the values of faith, family, hard work, and service—principles that remained evident throughout her life.

Mary was a devoted homemaker whose greatest joy came from caring for those she loved. She was easygoing, loving, compassionate, and hardworking. With a welcoming spirit and a heart that embraced everyone, Mary truly never met a stranger. Her kindness extended far beyond her immediate family, and those fortunate enough to know her experienced the warmth and generosity that came so naturally to her.

A gifted cook, Mary was well known for the delicious meals she prepared with love. Her homemade biscuits and tea cakes were among the family favorites and became treasured reminders of time spent gathered around her table. Cooking was more than simply preparing a meal for Mary—it was one of the many ways she expressed her love and cared for others. She also served as a care cook for the Louisiana Home Foreign Mission, using her gift of service to bless those around her.

Mary’s Christian faith was an important foundation of her life. She was a faithful member of New St. Thomas Baptist Church in Boyce, Louisiana, where she served the Lord in several capacities throughout the years. She served as a Deaconess, worked faithfully as an usher, and lifted her voice in praise as a member of the choir. She was truly a church-going woman who loved the Lord and demonstrated her faith through service, kindness, and love for others.

Mary came from a large family and was one of fourteen children. The lessons, traditions, and close family bonds established throughout her life became a legacy she lovingly passed down to generations that followed.

On Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana, Mary peacefully transitioned from this earthly life. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, the memories she created, the meals she lovingly prepared, the lessons she taught, and the faith she demonstrated will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her children, grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and presence.

Her life will be celebrated at Mount Triumph Baptist Church in Boyce, Louisiana on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 10:00 am and she will be laid to rest in Greenwood Memorial Park Cemetery in Pineville, Louisiana immediately following the service.

As family and friends gather to remember Mary, touches of two of her favorite colors, burgundy and royal blue, will be incorporated into the service as a special tribute to the beautiful life she lived.

Mary’s earthly journey has ended, but her legacy of faith, family, hospitality, hard work, and unconditional love will continue to live through every life she touched. Her family will forever remember her welcoming smile, caring heart, good cooking, and the love she so freely gave to everyone.

A life of 93 years. A legacy of love that will last for generations.