Mary E. Liggins Smith

Mary Smith of Dendron, Virginia, left us peacefully on August 8, surrounded by family and friends. A beloved member of the Liggins family, Mary, “Sister,” or “Legs”, born on May 3,1930, in Isle of Wight, Virginia, grew up as the oldest daughter of Maryland and Elizabeth Liggins. She was the fourth child of a large family that comprised seven brothers and two sisters.

In her early years, she lived and worked in New Jersey, where she met Otis Smith of Dendron, Virginia, and had two children. Her family later moved to Dendron, VA, to live in their ancestral home. She became a member of the First Baptist Church, Dendron, VA. Later, she transferred to Jerusalem Baptist, Waverly, VA. She was active on the Board of Supervisors in Dendron and in the church community. She was always baking a pound cake for social events or feeding the minister and his family on Sundays.

She was an adventurous person, traveling to Germany, Hawaii, and living in Texas while her daughter was deployed. She had lots of friends with whom she communicated by cell phone. She was very skillful with her cell phone, talking, texting, looking for information, and shopping. She loved her cell phone.

Mary, “Sister,” or “Legs” is survived by her son, Olen Smith, daughter Odetta Elleby (Clinton), sisters: Dorothy Blount and Carolyn Smith (Payton), brothers: Shirley Liggins (Margaret), Meritt Liggins, and God Grandson Isaiah Robertson. She has a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Otis, and brothers William Liggins (Anne), Joseph Liggins (Thessieal Mae), Clarence Liggins(Lee), Maryland Jr. Liggins (Clarien), and James Liggins.

Although Mary is no longer with us, her legacy of laughter and compassion will live on. She was always a big part of the family. She will be missed.

At 11am on Saturday, August 23, 2025, A Celebration of Life will be held at Shiloh Baptist Church, Windsor, VA. Viewing will take place two hours prior to the service from 9-11am at the church. Please keep the Liggins - Smith family in your prayers.