Mary Parsons Smith

Mary Parsons Smith of Rabun Gap died May 16th after her long courageous struggle with cancer. Mary moved to Rabun County initially in 2002 and full-time to her Rabun Gap home in 2016. Mary is survived by her two children, Elizabeth and Eric, and her two sisters Judith Cox of Rabun Gap and Barbara Demas of Colchester, Vermont. Mary was a devoted aunt to her many nieces and nephews who loved traveling and spending time with their Aunt Mary.

Mary retired from a thirty-year career at Emory University in Atlanta as an Associate Vice President in Human Resources. In 2017, Mary was a key leader in the revitalization of the Rabun County Democratic Party and served as chairperson from 2017- 2019. Mary was a mentor to many at Emory, a loyal and dedicated friend and a loving mother, sister, and aunt.  Mary traveled extensively in Europe, Canada and throughout the US.  Yet her favorite place was being home in Rabun surrounded by family, friends, and dogs.

Mary had an incredibly warm spirit and generously welcomed and accepted everyone she met and left their lives a little bit better. The family is hosting a Celebration of Life for Mary at the Parker Ranch in Clayton on Sunday, May 23 at 3:00 PM. Anyone who would like to join in the celebration is invited. The family asks that everyone please park at Clayton City Hall, where a shuttle will be provided, starting at 2:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make donations to several of Mary Smith’s favorite organizations including Rabun County Democrats, Heifer Inc., or Doctors Without Borders. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beck-funeralhome.com.

Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.