Letitia Louise Smith

August 3, 1941 - May 8, 2022

On May 8, 2022, Letitia Louise Smith (Tish) passed from this earth to her eternal life in heaven. She had the privilege of living to the age of 80. She was born on August 3, 1942 to Tom Joyner and Amy Rutherford in Shawneetown, IL. Tish was an R.N. (labor and delivery) as well as family and neighborhood nurse, helping friends and family. She was a food connoisseur and critic, always rooted for the underdog, cherished her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and could jitterbug with the best. She was always up for a fun time. Her mother often said her middle name was “Go,” as she would go with you anytime, anywhere at the drop of a hat. She could sing beautifully and play the piano. She loved jazz and R & B. A favorite memory is her on the piano playing “In the Mood” with so much energy, lips pursed and tongue out. She loved a practical joke which is good as she was the recipient of so many from her brother, son and nephews. To know Tish was to have many funny stories about her. But most importantly, when you left her presence, you felt so loved and special. Left with many fond and colorful memories are her two children, Jill Goodyear (Jay) from Hudson, Ohio and Martin Chafin (Crystal) from Greeneville, TN, her four grandchildren, Olivia (Tony), Madelyn, Dillon (Ciara) and Ronald (Julia), as well as her four great-grandchildren. Also carrying her colorful memories are her three siblings, Benny Joe Rutherford (Annie), Brenda Wood (Steve), and Darla Martin (David). She was always “tickled pink” for any time spent with her many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Smith, and survived by her former husband and friend, Tyrone Chafin. The family thanks Debbie, her neighbor, for all of her help in recent years. It gave us peace that you were there. We would love to have you join us in honoring and celebrating Tish on Monday, May 16, 2022. Visitation will be from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. with the service at 1:00 p.m. at Manes Funeral Home Chapel, Newport TN with Bro. Mike Hensley officiating. She will be interred in the Chafin Family Cemetery in Greene County, TN following the service. Family and friends may sign the guest register online at: www.manesfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Manes Funeral Home.