Mary E. Smith

Mary was born on January 17, 1952, the beloved daughter of Elizabeth (Muggs) and Noah W. Smith. Mary grew up in a nurturing, loving household and community in Chattahoochee, Florida. Mary worked at Florida State Hospital until she decided to pursue her real passion, physical therapy. Mary attended the University of Florida and graduated with a BHS in physical therapy in 1981. She immediately began work with the rehab staff at Baptist Hospital. For the next 34 years, Mary consistently used her professional skills with her supportive and encouraging nature to bring her patients more function and more hope.

Mary loved to travel, and was always up for a new adventure. Her travels included multiple excursions to Europe, an African safari, a month-long bicycle tour in New Zealand, zip lines and free falls in Costa Rica. She joined a Jazzercise exercise class in the early 80s, and continued to regularly attend, even after the onset of her illness.



In July of 1999, Mary married Dale McCombs. Mary said that Dale made her dreams come true, when he introduced her to Corvette car racing. They continued a life of adventures which involved boating and motorcycle riding. Dale supported Mary through her illness and was at her side at the time of her passing.



Mary was preceded in death by her brother Jimmy, and her parents. Mary leaves behind many, many friends, who will miss her rock-solid foundation of love, faith, and support; her willingness to join any of us for an adventure vacation; her ability to stay to the bitter end of every party (the quietest life of the party you could ever meet); and her faithfulness in sending us all cards to celebrate our special days and all holidays.