Barbara Ann (Alford) Smith

Barbara Ann Alford Smith, 81, of Tenaha, Texas, passed away on July 2, 2023, surrounded by loved ones in Center, Texas. She was born on July 25, 1941, in Center, Texas, to John “Jake” Bail Alford and Bennie Evelyn Cobb Alford.   

A graveside service will be held at 10AM on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Restland Cemetery, Tenaha, Texas, with Bro. Bill Holmes officiating. 

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, from 5-7PM at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

Barbara was born and raised in Tenaha, Texas. She graduated from Tenaha High School Class of 1959. One of her first jobs was working the telephone switch board in Shreveport LA.  After her three sons were born she pursued her Bachelor of Arts degree in teaching from Stephen F. Austin State University. She taught for over 31 years at her favorite place, Tenaha ISD. She was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Tenaha and proudly displayed her award.  Barbara met the love of her life, Gerald “Jerry” Wayne Smith, at her aunt’s house at the young age of twelve. Jerry was sure she would be his soulmate and the two high school sweethearts were married on January 23, 1960.  They spent over 63 wonderful years together raising three sons. She only left Shelby County for a few months while Jerry served in the Navy while stationed in California.   Barbara was an excellent cook. She enjoyed spending time with family. She made sure her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren knew the importance of family and faith. Barbara loved to read her bible. She served as a Sunday school teacher and sang in the choir for many years before her health began to fail. She enjoyed painting, drawing, and working outdoors in her flower garden

She is survived by her loving husband,

Jerry Smith

Mother,

Bennie Evelyn Alford

Sons,

Michael Wayne Smith and wife Robyn

Ronnie Alan Smith and wife Joann

Terry Brian Smith and wife Ramona

Brothers,

Johnny “Randall” Alford and wife Ione

John Bail Alford Jr. and wife Lori

Sisters,

Nancy Donahoe

Joyce Sloan and husband Mike

Grandchildren,

Kalen Smith and wife Jessica

Ryan Smith and wife Diane

Josh Smith and wife Val

Brittany Smith

Jessica Smith

Stephanie Smith

Shayne Stewart and wife Jasmine

Joshua Stewart

Great Grandchildren,

Makenna

Ethan

Sophie

Zachary

Zoey

Mason

Jenna

Khai

Jozie

James

Wesley

Davina

Mason

Miles

Baby Stewart on the way

And numerous nieces and nephews.

A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.

Barbara is preceded in death by her father, John “Jake” Alford; brother, Larry Hoyt Alford; sister, Brenda Daniels; brother-in-law, Kenny Donahoe.

Pallbearers serving will be Kalen Smith, Ryan Smith, Josh Smith, Joshua Stewart, Lewis Johnson, and Craig Haltom.