Mary Virginia Smith

Mary Virginia Mulkey Riley Smith, age 82, peacefully entered her heavenly home on September 24, 2024. Born on April 24, 1942, Mary was the youngest daughter of Rachel Louisiana Brooks Mulkey and Jeffrey Truly Mulkey, growing up in a loving family of 13 siblings in the heart of Louisiana.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and 12 beloved brothers and sisters. She is survived by her brother William Allen Mulkey (Sandra), her devoted daughter Rachel Diane Parks, and her cherished grandchildren Edward Delane Boeker (Camille), Barrett Louis Boeker (Kirsten), and Virginia Nicole Parks. Mary was also the proud great-grandmother of Jacob Travis Dickerhoof, Hannah Rose Dickerhoof, Graham Louis Boeker, Opal Madeliene Boeker, Evelyn Anne Boeker, Samuel Hutch Parks, Austin Lee Strahan, and Emma Grace Strahan. She leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.

Born into the humble life of a sharecropper’s family, Mary carried with her the values of faith, family, and hard work throughout her life. She spent over 40 years working at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, where her hard work, resilience, and dedication made a lasting impact on those around her.

Her deep love for the Lord was a cornerstone of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with her family. Her affection for LSU football was well-known, as was her fondness for a refreshing Coke and a hot cup of Black Community coffee.

Services will be held on October 5th at the Apostolic Tabernacle of the Felicianas, 17903 LA HWY 10. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 AM, with the service beginning at 11 AM.

Mary will be remembered for her kind spirit, unwavering faith, and love for the simple joys in life. She touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed.