Muriel Dean Smith (10-26-22) service 10-31-22

Muriel Dean Smith, 85, of Savannah, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 26, in Savannah. She was born on June 28, 1937 in Hardin County, the daughter of the late Glen and Edith Hetti Williams Smith.

On June 18, 1956, she was united in marriage to James “Bauldy” Smith, who preceded his wife in death on Oct. 2, 1985.

Mrs. Smith owned and operated Super Mini Grocery in Savannah, for 15 years, Savannah Vending Company for 15 years, Savannah Truck Stop for 17 years and The Beauty Spot for 59 years. She was a member of Graham Methodist Church, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary and the Tennessee Federation of Democratic Women. She was also a member of National Cosmetology Association for 36 years. During that time she was appointed to the state board of cosmetology and her first appointment was by the Governor Ned Ray McWherter.

She was the first lady elected commissioner in Hardin County, and served for 3 years. She was past president of Savannah Businesses and Professional Women’s Club, past Board Member of Jack Gean Shelter for Women and Men, past Chairman of Hardin County Democratic Party, and past President of Hardin County Democratic Women (currently serving as Vice President.)

Mrs. Smith was extremely active in campaigns for the Democratic Party; county, state and national elections for many years. In addition to politicking, she also enjoyed cooking and baking, especially pies and cakes.

She is survived by her daughter, Paige Smith Turnbow and her husband Donny of Crump; brother, Charles Shelby and his wife Edna of West Virginia; granddaughter, Brandy Ponds of Crump; great-granddaughter, Macee Grace Ponds of Crump, a special nurse, Jo Anne Marcell of Savannah; and a host of cousins, friends and customers.

In addition to her parents and husband, Muriel was preceded in death by her brothers, Robert David Shelby and Harold Shelby.

Services were held on Monday, Oct. 31, at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Savannah, with Keith Holloway officiating. Burial followed at Memory Gardens in Savannah.