Barbara Smith

Barbara “Pug” Myers Smith passed away on January 5th, 2025, surrounded by her two daughters and son-in-law.

Born on April 15th, 1939, in Terry, MS, to A. Reuel Myers and Amy Shelby Myers, Pug’s journey began in the heart of Mississippi. At the age of 2, her family relocated to Pascagoula, MS, where she became a proud lifelong resident until moving to Gulf Breeze, FL three years ago to be closer to family.

Barbara’s active involvement in her school and community was a natural extension of her vibrant personality. A proud graduate of Pascagoula High School, she was a majorette and played the clarinet in the school band. After a year at Southern Miss, she returned home and married her high school sweetheart, James Earl Smith, on Valentine’s Day in 1960. Barbara enjoyed a fulfilling career spanning over two decades at Johnson Bros Jewelry Store, where her gift for connection made her a cherished presence in the community.

A true social butterfly, Barbara had a way of lighting up every room she entered with her radiant smile, playful humor, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel uniquely special. She nurtured many lifelong friendships that spanned decades and effortlessly formed new ones after moving to the Arbors of Gulf Breeze. Barbara cherished her friends, both old and new, and her deep love for her family shone through in the way she always checked in, making sure everyone was cared for and doing well.

In retirement, Pug and Jimmy found peace in the simple joys of life, taking quiet daily drives along Pascagoula Beach, often with their beloved dog, Bud, nestled between them.

She is greeted in heaven by her parents, A. Reuel Myers and Amy Shelby Myers; her husband, James “Jimmy” Smith; sisters Jimmie Nell Quinn and Frankie Jean Baxter; and her son-in-law, Patrick Fulford.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Barbara Leigh (Juan) Garcia and Cynthia Fulford; 9 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.

Pug never met a stranger, and her infectious energy and zest for life left a lasting impression on all who knew her. A true Southern belle, she was known for her warmth, grace, strong faith, and the way she made everyone feel like the most important person in the room. Her family and friends will forever cherish the memories she created with her lively spirit, and her sparkling light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved her.

A celebration of Pug’s life will be held in Gulf Breeze, FL, at The Arbors, on Friday, January 10, 2025 from 2:00pm-4:00pm. For friends and family in Pascagoula, MS, there will be a 2nd Celebration of Life at the Smith’s residence on Sunday, January 12, 2025 from 2:00pm-4:00pm. Please join us in honoring her memory and sharing stories of the beautiful soul she was.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity.