Lena Sams Smith, was born July 18, 1934 in Rockford, Tennessee. July 18 would also be the birthday of her son, Russell, and her granddaughter Stephanie Kate.

She passed away at age 91 on May 31, 2026. She was proceeded in death by her husband of 61 years, Bill J, Smith., and, her parents, Doc Carl Sams and Myrtle Long Sams of Rockford, Tn. She was also proceeded in death by her brother, Carl E. Sams, sister, Ruth Parker, and, brother, Ernest (Ernie) Sams.

She is survived by her son, Russell J. Smith M.D. and wife Amanda of Maryville; granddaughters Sarah Smith Adams (Michael) of Maryville; Dr. Stephanie Smith Burns (Tyler) of Maryville: Great Grandchildren Arthur Adams, Walter Adams, and Josephine Kate Burns; nephews Stan Parker (Pam)of McDonough GA; Steve Parker of Nebo, KY; Dr. Carl Ernest Sams of Knoxville (Deb), Edward Sonny Smith (Kay) of Knoxville, and, Rev. Phil Young (Kim) of Knoxville. She is survived by nieces: Cheryl Sams Hajdun (Michael) of Gloucester, CT; Vicki Sams Scoonover (Ken) of Knoxville, Brenda Jenkins (Frank) of Knoxville, and Debbie Anderson (Paul) of Irmo, SC.

Lena Sams Smith married Bill J. Smith of Knoxville on July 30, 1954. They moved to Greeneville, TN in 1958 where they managed a new Emery's Five & Dime Store. She and Bill were members of Tusculum Baptist Church.

Lena had an unsurpassed sweet spirit. She was sincerely loved by all who knew her. She had a genuine empathy for others. Her kind, Christian nature impacted the lives of many.

Her utmost joy in life was spending time with family.

The people with whom she worked at Emery's were like family including Sue Bowers, Penny Bowers, Barbara Dixon, Pat Inscore, Joyce Davis, Jo Teague, and Josephine Eikenberry. A sweeter work crew could never be found.

Lena lived in Maryville, Tn. in her later years near family.

The family would like to extend immense gratitude to devoted friend and caregiver Ramona Darnell. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Homes, PO Box 2206, Brentwood, TN 37024.

Family will receive friends from 4:00-6:00 pm, Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Smith Trinity Chapel. Funeral service will be at 6:00 pm Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Smith Trinity Chapel with Rev. Phil Young officiating. Family and friends will assemble for interment at 9:00 am, Friday, June 5, 2026, at Grandview Cemetery. Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.Smithfuneralandcremation.com.