Kay Smith

Tupelo — Teresa Kay Murphree Smith passed away peacefully at her home in Tupelo, Mississippi, on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at the age of 64.

Born on February 14, 1962, in Pontotoc, Mississippi, to the late James Wayne Murphree and Imogene Ruth McCollum Murphree, Kay was known throughout her life for her hard work ethic and her caring heart. Those who knew her best often said, "Nothing was too much, she'd tackle anything."

Kay had a deep love for the outdoors, especially working in her yard, tending to her flowers, and creating beautiful floral arrangements. Above all else, her true passion in life was her family. She dedicated herself whole-heartedly to raising children, serving as parents to over 30 foster children and adopting 2 of the children they fostered, while creating a warm, nurturing home. On June 1, 1981, she married the love of her life, William "Michael" Smith, and together they built a wonderful life filled with devotion and love until his passing in January 2025. She will always be remembered for her kind, selfless spirit and her endless desire to care for those around her.

Kay is survived by her daughters, Latrisha Crump (Martin) of Pass Christian, MS, Kayla Foster of Tupelo, MS, Ravyn Smith of Memphis, TN, and Honna Smith of Arlington, TX; twelve grandchildren, Cade Foster, Hayden Soward, Kaylee Fairley (Caleb), Madison Buzbee (Nolan), Gracie Crump, Zoe Crump, Emma Crump, Malachi Crump, Asher Smith, Ashton Smith, Laken Smith, and Kyra Stegall; and five great-grandchildren, Kylo Fairley, Emersyn Fairley, Wilder Fairley, Piper Smith, and Jentezen Smith.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William "Michael" Smith; her parents, James Wayne Murphree and Imogene Ruth McCollum Murphree; her stepson, William Christopher Smith; her great-grandson, Jaxtyn Smith; and her sisters, Sherry Loggins, Gwen Hurd, Durenda King, and Cynthia Alred.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3 PM today, Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Mt. Vernon Chapel in Tupelo, MS. A reception will follow the service until 6 PM, where friends and family are invited to gather together, share memories, and celebrate Kay's wonderful life.

The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to Inhabit Hospice and especially to Breshayla Tumblin, Lindsey Miles, Misty Jenkins and Meghan Nabors for their selfless love and care of Mrs. Kay.

Mt. Vernon Chapel is honored to assist the Smith family at this time. Condolences for the family can be made on Mrs. Kay's page at mtvernonchapel.com