The Life and Legacy of
Mariena Leticia Smith

“Her love was a gift, her laughter a melody, and her legacy will forever bloom in our hearts.”

Mariena Leticia Smith, affectionately known as “Marsha,” “Cuz”, “Rena Bena,” “Sister,” and “Mama Rock,” was born on July 31, 1966, in Tallahassee, Florida, to Lerinzo and Frances Smith, and was lovingly raised in Crawfordville (Wakulla County), Florida. She lived a life rooted in love, compassion, and joy, touching countless lives with her generous heart and vibrant spirit. Her infectious laughter, quick wit, and welcoming nature made everyone feel like family, and her presence was a blessing wherever she went.

Mariena received her education in the Wakulla County Public School System, where she developed the caring spirit and strong values that guided her throughout life. She faithfully served as a Home Health Aide with Irene’s Loving Care Service, where caring for others was more than a profession-it was her calling. She offered comfort, dignity, and kindness to every life she encountered, leaving a lasting impression on the families she served.

She found joy in life’s simple blessings. Whether tending her garden, preparing her famous potato salad and fried chicken, fishing with loved ones, or gathering around a card table filled with laughter, Mariena treasured every opportunity to spend time with family and friends. She understood that life’s richest moments were those shared with the people she loved.

On June 23, 2026, Mariena peacefully answered the Master’s call and entered into eternal rest. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in the promise of Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want... He restoreth my soul.” We rejoice knowing she now rests beside still waters, embraced by the peace of her Heavenly Father.

Family was the heart of Mariena’s life. Left to cherish her precious memories are her beloved daughters, Nichole (Travis) Robinson and Sebrina (Harvey) Brown; her devoted sons, Christopher (Holly) Randolph and Justin Randolph; her cherished grandchildren, Justin Randolph Jr., Christopher Randolph Jr., Rihanna Randolph, Shanya Donaldson, Adrian Smith, Adrianna Smith, Donelle Gay Jr., Donnashia Gay, and Hayven Greene; her loving parents, Frances and Lerinzo Smith; her sisters, Valery (Robert) Meeks and Sharon Arnett; her brother, Lomax (Glynis) Smith; god sister, Kristell Robinson; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her brother: Lasarus Smith; her grandparents: Willie Mae Frank, Luke (Effie) Smith, and John (Alberta) Tucker; her aunts: Cora Mae Gavin, Allee Hughes, Lillian Scott, Lula Mae (Sam) Taylor, Clara (William) Paytee, Maggie Tucker, and Corine Glenn; and her uncles: Clarence Tucker, Earnest Tucker, Lewis Anderson, and Melvin (Ruby) Smith.

Mariena’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith, kindness, and unconditional love. Though she is no longer with us in body, the seeds of compassion she planted will continue to flourish in the lives she touched. As God’s Word reminds us, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." - Psalm 23:6