Marilyn Elizabeth Smith

 Marilyn Elizabeth Mason Smith’s life was defined by her immense love for her family, her creativity, and her passion for cooking and baking. Marilyn entered into eternal rest on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the age of 73. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Ms. Hot, as many of us knew her, touched the lives of so many with her warmth, generosity, and love of cooking.

Marilyn was born on July 21, 1951, in Lincolnton, GA, to the union of Robert Thomas “RT” Mason, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Jones Mason. Marilyn was known for her incredible talents in the kitchen. Whether it was a holiday feast, a simple meal, or her delicious cakes, she always knew how to make others feel special with her culinary creations. Her meals were made with love, and every bite was a reminder of her nurturing spirit and her joy in sharing with others. 

Marilyn found absolute joy in hosting family gatherings and baking cakes for so many of her family and friends. Her kitchen was not only a place of nourishment, but a space filled with laughter, conversations, and warmth. Her homemade dishes and cakes will forever live on in the hearts of all who were blessed enough to enjoy them.

She was predeceased by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Thomas “RT” (Mary Elizabeth Jones ) Mason, Sr., her husband, Larry Smith, her son, Jeffery “Spanky” Smith, and her brothers, Rev. Robert Thomas “Sam” Mason, Jr. and Freddie Lee Mason. 

She is survived by her devoted twin children, Calvin (Sharonda) Smith of McCormick, SC and Cathy Mason-Smith of Lincolnton, GA; loving grandchildren, Deron (Michelle) Lee of Grovetown, GA, Jalen Smith and Kellen Smith both of McCormick, SC, Aaron Smith, Jaige Smith both of Lincolnton, GA, Dorian Favors of Washington, GA, and Amberly (Jarvis) Turner of Greenwood, SC; two great-grandchildren, Drew Lee of Grovetown, GA and Braylen Lockhart of Lincolnton, GA; three caring brothers, Curtis (Maxine) Mason of San Antonio, TX, Jesse Mason, and James (Janet) Mason both of Lincolnton, GA; in-laws, Velma Mason of Atlanta, GA, Carolyn Thompkins of Plum Branch, SC, George Parks of Gary, IN, Gloria (LeRoy) Jones of Harlem, GA, Jimmy (Marsha) Parks of Grovetown, GA, and Julia Parks of Plum Branch, SC; close friend, Theresa Norman; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will continue to cherish the memories of her love and care. 

Marilyn will be greatly missed, but her legacy of love, warmth, and delicious foods will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Rest in peace, Marilyn. You will forever be remembered in the hearts of all who were touched by your love, kindness, and culinary expertise.