Mary Lou Riley Smith, the daughter of Charles and Esther Mae Riley (Mullikin), passed away on Saturday, July 9, 2023, surrounded by people who loved and cared deeply for her. She was 92 years old. Mary Lou was predeceased by her husband, Edgar (Buddy) Thomas Smith, on October 31, 1984.

Born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, on May 3, 1931, Mary Lou graduated from Pine Bluff High School and actively participated in student politics, serving on the Student Council. On November 7, 1954, she married Buddy in Pine Bluff, where they embarked on their life journey together. Over the years, they lived in various locations across the United States before settling in Springfield, Missouri, in 1972.

Despite the unconventional nature of pursuing her undergraduate degree in her early 40s, Mary Lou achieved this feat during the 1970s. She went on to earn her master's degree with honors from SMSU (now Missouri State University) and pursued courses towards her Ph.D. at the University of Missouri. From 1976 to 1996, Mary Lou dedicated 20 years of her life to teaching high school English and Honors English at Parkview High School. She commanded respect and admiration from her peers while also instilling a slight fear in her students.

Mary Lou was an extraordinary woman—strong, intelligent, and incredibly funny. Her quick wit and sharp sense of humor never failed to bring laughter to those around her. Her strength was unwavering.

Mary Lou is survived by her daughter, Rebecca Maria McAfee of Seattle, Washington. She is preceded in death by her sister, Peggy Riley Reichard of Pennsylvania, as well as Charles Riley and Mickey Riley Welch of Arkansas. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Mary Lou's honor to the National Education Association (NEA). The NEA supports equal opportunities for all students and recognizes the transformative power of public education in creating a more just and inclusive society.  Alternatively, you may plant a tree in her memory with the Arbor Day Foundation.  With thoughts of comfort and peace, the trees will be a living monument to Mary Lou. https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative-trees-in-memory

A visitation for her ashes and a pictorial tribute will be held on Monday, July 17, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, 1947 E. Seminole, Springfield, MO 65804.

Memorial services and a reception will take place at Gorman Scharpf Funeral Home in Springfield, Missouri, on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at 11:00 am and following the service, a reception will be held.

The service will be live streamed and can be viewed at the All Occasion Video Springfield Missouri Facebook page or by clicking here .