Smith, Mary Agnes & James Wayland "Jim" Mary Agnes (Rabby) and Jim Smith passed away peacefully on December 6, 2020 about 7 hours apart. They died from COVID-19 which they contracted shortly before Thanksgiving. After over 65 years of marriage and a long and fulfilling life, it is a blessing they were able to make this final journey together. Mary Agnes was born Jan. 10, 1927 in Hattiesburg, MS and grew up in Baton Rouge, LA. Jim was born Nov. 6, 1930 in Marion, LA and grew up on the family's dairy farm in Oak Grove, LA. They both graduated from LSU where they met and married in April 1955. Jim completed his PH.D. at NC State in Raleigh, where their children, Carla and Paul, were born. They moved to Greenbelt, MD where Dr. Smith began a long professional career as a dairy scientist working for USDA. He subsequently worked for USAID consulting on agricultural projects in India (where he and Mary Agnes lived for two years) and in Pakistan, Poland and other countries. He also served as chair of the Dairy Science Dept. at LSU. Mary Agnes devoted her energies primarily to homemaking and caring for her family. They moved to Independence, MN in 1990 and became active grandparents helping care for their granddaughters. Jim and Mary Agnes were involved in church and community activities throughout their lives. In Greenbelt, Jim served on the Board and as President of their cooperative housing association. After moving to Minnesota, he was elected to the Independence City Council and served on a variety of local and state government commissions. They were active members of Wayzata Community Church and participated in various boards, committees, study groups and volunteer activities. Avid gardeners, cooks and do-it-yourselfers, they enjoyed home projects, spending time with family and friends and being of service. Jim and Mary Agnes were preceded in death by their parents, two siblings and their son Paul Smith. They are survived by their daughter Carla Smith; granddaughters Becca (Brandon) Hirdler, Sarah Swanson, Caitie Sawyer-Smith and Jessica (Chris) Kellogg; great granddaughter Iliana Kellogg; their siblings Roy (Carolyn) Smith, Patsy (Ophie) Breaux, Llewellyn "Bo" (Ruth) Rabby and brother-in-law Sam Rogers (spouse of Jim's deceased sister Sarah); and other extended family. The family wishes to thank the staff of Haven Homes in Maple Plain, MN for their kindness and loving care. A memorial service will be held at a future date. Memorial contributions may be made to Wayzata Community Church in Wayzata, MN.

Published on December 13, 2020