Dawn Hall Smith, 66, passed away on January 27, 2026, and went home to join the love of her life, her husband Murrel, once again. Born on May 5, 1959, in Magee, Mississippi, to Bobby Royce Hall and Jackie Nell Sullivan, Dawn later grew up in Pearl, Mississippi as the oldest of four girls.

Dawn lived an adventurous life, a spirit she carried right into her marriage. On January 5, 1984, she married her longtime pen pal and soulmate, Murrel Smith known affectionately as “Doc” in Lafayette, Louisiana. Dawn, his beloved “Shortcake,” followed him wherever life and work led them. Together they built a life full of love, devotion, and stories worth telling. To know Dawn was to know how deeply she loved her family; they were always her greatest pride.

They lived in many places over the years, including Chattanooga, TN, where they welcomed their two children, Dylan and Summer. Their journey later took them to Florida, a place Dawn truly loved. She found joy in the beach, the sunshine, and the warmth, embracing the freedom and beauty of life wherever she landed. Dawn and Murrel shared nearly four decades of marriage until his passing in 2023, with a bond that never faded and a love that never wavered.

A hard worker in every sense of the word, Dawn owned and operated her own housekeeping business for many decades working alongside her sister, Pam. She was known for her dedication, reliability, and determination, retiring in 2025 after building something entirely her own. When she wasn’t working, Dawn could most often be found outside, tending to her yard and flower beds creating spaces she made as vibrant and full of life as she was.

In recent years, her greatest joy was time spent with her grandson, Forrest, whom she adored beyond measure. Dawn was a true spitfire. She was quick-witted, sharp in the best way, and full of personality. She carried more wit than she could hold, always ready with a sharp remark, a laugh, or a helping hand. Strong and fiercely loving, Dawn carried herself with confidence and left an unforgettable mark on everyone she met.

She is survived by her mother, Jackie Hall, her daughter, Summer Smith; her grandson, Forrest Tadlock; her sisters, Felicia Landfair and Pam Hall; along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Murrel Smith; and their son, Dylan Smith; her father, Bobby Hall; and her sister, Darlene Hall.

In keeping with Dawn’s wishes, there will be no funeral services held. Dawn would not want her loved ones to mourn her passing, but to celebrate a life well lived. She loved deeply while she was here, and there is no doubt she is now reunited with her husband, Murrel, together again, whole, happy, and at peace.