Marcia Lynn (Berkshire) Smith

Marcia Lynn Smith, age 66, of Palestine, Texas, passed away peacefully on the 9th day of April 2024, in Dallas, Texas. Born on the 18th day of January 1958, to parents Clyde Edward Berkshire and Joan Wise Berkshire, in Logansport, Indiana, Marcia's life was a testament to the power of education and the joy of lifelong learning.

After earning her bachelor's degree from Purdue University in 1980, Marcia dedicated over three decades to shaping young minds as a teacher and librarian. Her passion for knowledge and her commitment to her students left a lasting mark on countless lives. Marcia's intelligence shone brightly in her professional endeavors, earning her the respect of her colleagues and the wider community.

An ardent supporter of Purdue basketball, Marcia's enthusiasm for her alma mater was infectious. Her love of the game was paralleled only by her love of reading. Marcia's extensive library was a reflection of her wide-ranging interests, and she could often be found with a book in hand, lost in its pages.

Above all, Marcia cherished the time spent with her grandchildren. Each moment was precious, filled with stories, laughter, and the gentle wisdom she imparted. Her love for her grandchildren was a radiant force, guiding them with kindness and nurturing their growth.

Marcia's legacy is one of love, intelligence, and gentleness. She approached life with a soft-spoken strength that drew people to her, and she leaves behind a community enriched by her presence. Her spirit, so loving and wise, will continue to inspire those who knew her, reminding us all of the beauty in the simple act of reading a book to a child or cheering on your favorite team.

As we bid farewell to Marcia Smith, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that gave so generously. She will be deeply missed, but the memories she created will be treasured forever by her husband of 43 years, Gary Smith; son, Zachary Smith and wife Elizabeth; sisters, Debbie Hodnett and husband Bobby, Teresa Perrine and husband Gary, and Diana Hearit and husband Keith.  She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Madisyn Smith and Dakota Smith, along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Marcia is preceded in death by her parents Clyde and Joan Berkshire.

Funeral services to celebrate Marcia Smith’s life are to be conducted at eleven o’clock in the morning on Tuesday, the 16th day of April 2024 at New Behold Church, 5180 N. State Highway 155, Palestine, Texas 75803.  Pastor Marvin Hollie will be officiating the service.  Interment will follow in Chambers-Day Cemetery.

Friends are invited to visit with the family beginning one hour prior to the start of the service at New Behold Church.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Gary Perrine, Zachary Smith, Johnathan Ritch, Jason Lansford, Christopher Shannon, and Thomas Martin.  Honorary pallbearers include Dakota Smith, Jacob Dean, Kamren Pharis and Jordan Bailey.   

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions in memory of Marcia Smith can be directed towards your charity of choice.

Funeral services for Marcia Lynn Smith are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.

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