Mary Lourd Smith

Mary Lourd Smith, 70, passed away with family by her side Monday, August 20, 2012 in Houston. After a courageous and inspirational battle against lung cancer, she finally succumbed in peace and tranquility. Mary leaves behind a legacy of love, sincerity and feistiness that will continue to inspire and challenge others to live life to the fullest. A woman of great compassion and strength, Mary made the most of every moment of her life. She impacted and uplifted the lives of so many people - all were better for having met her and none will ever forget her. She will be deeply missed by family and friends, but will live in their hearts forever. Born November 22, 1941 in New Iberia, Louisiana to William and Mabel Lourd, Mary was the epitome of Southern hospitality and charm. Mary attended Mount Carmel Catholic School in New Iberia and St. Mary's Dominican College in New Orleans. As a tried and true Cajun, Mary had a deep-rooted love for family, faith, flowers and good food. Mary met Edmond Smith, fell in love, and they married July 6, 1974. They moved to Texas where they raised four children, contributed countless volunteer hours throughout Brazoria County and built many beautiful friendships that made Mary's life on earth such a joy. Mary and Ed have been completely committed to the Brazoria County Fair Association for over 25 years where Mary served as a member of the board of directors, as chairwoman of the Grounds Beautification Committee, and also as chairwoman of the locally famous, Chicken Scramble. The Fair could always count on her as a loyal volunteer - helping on Senior Citizens Day and Special Children's Day - along with her commitment to decorating for all Fair events. Some of the family's fondest memories were the very special times spent together in the Western Room. Mary's greatest passion was spending time with her grandchildren. She is survived by husband, Ed Smith, of Angleton; four children, Stephen Viator of Austin, Michael Viator and wife Cherie of Houston; Susan Woodard and husband Keith of Keller; Dawn Smith Koenning and husband Court of Houston; six grandchildren, Kendall and Collin Viator, Averie and Annslie Woodard, and Carson and Cade Koenning; her only sibling, Clara Lourd O'Niell; nieces, Beth Desonier Gregory, Suzanne Desonier and Stephanie Desonier Privat; and nephews, Olin (Tiger) Desonier, David Desonier and Clancy Smith. The family will receive friends Thursday, August 23, 2012 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. for a visitation followed by a Rosary, at the Chapel at Palms Funeral Home, 2300 East Mulberry, Angleton, Texas 77515. A celebration of her life will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, August 24, 2012 also at Palms Funeral Home in Angleton. A private graveside service and interment will follow at Memorial Oaks Cemetery, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079. Provide comfort for the family by planting a tree in memory of Mary Lourd Smith (Lourd), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store. Visitation Thursday, August 23rd, 2012 5:00pm - 7:00pm, Palms Funeral Home 2300 E. Mulberry Angleton, TX 77515 Service Information Friday, August 24th, 2012 10:00am, Palms Funeral Home 2300 E. Mulberry Angleton, TX 77515