Mrs. Mary Bernadette Cooper Smith, age 76, of Dalton, Georgia, departed this life on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Hamilton Medical Center in Dalton, Georgia.

Mary was born June 2, 1949, in Kansas City, Missouri. She was the daughter of the late Wylie and Edna Lucus Cooper. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Bucky Cooper.

Mary was a hard worker who truly enjoyed staying busy. She loved shopping, but most of all she cherished spending time with her family. Mary dedicated much of her life to working in human services, where she found purpose in helping and caring for others.

Mary is survived by her husband, best friend, and the love of her life for over 30 years, Steve Smith; daughter, Andrea Bridger of Johnson City, Tennessee; brother, Mack Cooper of Nashville, Tennessee; and sister, Rosie Bailey of Church Hill, Tennessee.

Per Mary's wishes, she will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, Georgia 30721. For more information, please visit www.selectedindependentfuneralhomes.org