Longtime Benton Resident Mary Lou Smith Dies at 79

Smith worked as a certified nursing assistant and is survived by her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Mary Lou Smith, a 79-year-old resident of Benton, Illinois, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026, at her home. She was born in Phoenix, Arizona in 1947 and worked as a certified nursing assistant at several area nursing homes. Smith is survived by her husband Dennis, son Chris, daughter Heather, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Mary Lou Smith's passing marks the loss of a longtime member of the Benton community who dedicated her career to caring for others as a nursing assistant. Her family and friends will mourn her death, and the community will remember her contributions.

The details

Mary Lou Smith was born on January 15, 1947 in Phoenix, Arizona to Ellsworth and Constant Regina (Pannell) Shaw. She married Dennis Smith on June 20, 1970 and worked as a certified nursing assistant at several nursing homes in the Benton area. She is survived by her husband, son, daughter, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a sister.

  • Mary Lou Smith passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026.
  • Graveside services will be held at noon on Saturday, March 7, 2026.

The players

Mary Lou Smith

A 79-year-old resident of Benton, Illinois who worked as a certified nursing assistant.

Dennis Smith

Mary Lou Smith's husband.

Chris Smith

Mary Lou Smith's son.

Heather Powell

Mary Lou Smith's daughter.

Betty Brown

Mary Lou Smith's sister.

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The takeaway

Mary Lou Smith's passing is a loss for the Benton community, where she worked as a nursing assistant and was a longtime resident. Her family and friends will remember her dedication and contributions.