Jessie Mae “Pressnell” Smith, aged 88, of Athens, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, February 1st, 2026. Born on September 11th, 1937, in Athens, she was the daughter of Joe and Josie Graviet Pressnell.
Mrs. Smith leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Janet Cross (Larry) of Ardmore, and her son, Gerald Smith (Jennie) of Ardmore. She is also survived by her brother, Glenn Pressnell, of Athens. Her cherished grandchildren, Seth Quinn, Rebecca Smith, Matthew Smith, and Michael Smith (Anna), and her dear great-grandchildren, Leyton Zirbel, Addie Mae Smith, Cason Davis, and Reece Davis, will hold her memory close.
Preceding her in death was her husband, Oliver Smith, as well as her parents, Joe and Josie Pressnell. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Odie Lee Pressnell, Ernest Pressnell, Paul Pressnell, James Pressnell, and Charles Pressnell, and her sisters, Mary Fitch, Lucille Yarbrough, Dot Roberts, and Pauline Pressnell.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 5th, at 2:00 pm at Sardis Springs Baptist Church, with Bro. Tim Keenum officiating. Mrs. Smith will be laid to rest at Sardis Springs Cemetery. Honoring Mrs. Smith as pallbearers will be Seth Quinn, Matthew Smith, Michael Smith, Leyton Zirbel, Steve Pressnell, and Jeff Mooneyham.
Mrs. Smith was a dedicated member of Sardis Springs Baptist Church. Her greatest joy was her family, and she loved deeply as a mother and grandmother. Guided by her strong Christian faith, she lived a life of compassion, grace, and service to others, leaving a lasting imprint on every heart she touched. The family extends their gratitude to all who have shown support and love during this time.
