Patrice A. Smith passed away on August 30, 2026, at the age of 73. Born on November 13, 1952, in Richmond, Virginia, she was raised in Laurel, Mississippi and carried with her a warmth and generosity that touched the lives of many.

Patrice began her college education at Mississippi State, where she met her husband, Dennis, a meeting that shaped the course of her life. She later transferred to the University of Central Florida, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. She spent many years as a preschool teacher, a role well suited to her kind and giving nature. Later, she transitioned into accounting and worked for Sears, from where she was able to retire early.

She found joy in the beauty of everyday life. Patrice was an avid gardener who loved plants and flowers and was known for her skilled green thumb. An animal lover, she filled her home with the lively companionship of dogs and cats. She also had a deep interest in genealogy and took pleasure in researching her roots. As a longtime member of the Bloom and Grow Garden Club, she shared her love of gardening with others who appreciated the same simple and lasting pleasures.

Patrice especially loved bringing people together. The holidays were among her happiest times, and she took great joy in making her home the place where the whole family could gather. She delighted in cooking, decorating, and hosting everyone, creating celebrations that will be remembered with love. Kind and giving by nature, she especially loved doting on her grandchildren. Being a grandmother was her proudest accomplishment, and family remained at the center of her life. She also shared a love of travel with her husband, Dennis, and among their many journeys, their favorite trip was to Edinburgh, Scotland.

She is survived by her son, Brian Smith; her daughter, Andrea Bowen; her grandchildren, Lennox Smith and Belle Bowen; and her sister, Sandra McKinzie. She also leaves behind the enduring memory of a woman whose home, heart, and hands were always open to those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Smith; her father, Ned Chester Smith; her mother, Eleanor (Windham) Smith; and her granddaughter, Elizabeth Smith.

Patrice will be remembered for her generosity, her devotion to family, her love of growing things, and the comfort she created wherever she was. Her life was one of care, welcome, and deep affection, and her memory will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.