Robert "Bud" McWilliams Smith

Robert (Bud) McWilliams Smith

February 18, 1946 – October 21, 2026

Robert McWilliams Smith, 80, of Kemper County, Mississippi, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy rooted in faith, family, education, service, and love for his community.

Robert was known for his strength of character, dependable nature, and unwavering work ethic. He believed in doing what was right, keeping his commitments, and allowing his actions to speak for him. His life commanded respect, and his influence was felt by all who knew him.

Robert was a graduate of DeKalb High School and earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Mississippi State University. He devoted his professional life to agricultural education, teaching at Kemper County High School and West Lauderdale High School. As an educator, he gave generations of young people more than knowledge of agriculture and practical skills. He taught them the value of responsibility, integrity, perseverance, and hard work. His lessons continued long after students left his classroom, carried forward in the lives of those he encouraged and guided.

Together, Robert and his beloved wife, Mary Margaret, affectionately known as “Ms. M,” devoted their lives to education and to the young people of Kemper County and beyond. Their shared commitment reached far beyond the classroom. Through their example, they showed what it meant to serve others with humility, compassion, and genuine love. The lives they touched remain part of the legacy they built together.

Agriculture was not simply Robert’s profession; it was a calling and a lifelong passion. A respected cattleman, he was recognized as Cattleman of the Year in both 1983 and 1987. He served for 45 years on the Farm Bureau Board of Directors and as president of the Kemper County Cattlemen’s Association. His dedication to agriculture reflected his deep sense of stewardship and his desire to strengthen the farming community and preserve its way of life for future generations.

Robert’s Christian faith was the foundation of everything he did. As a faithful member and deacon of DeKalb Baptist Church, he lived out his devotion to Christ through service, steadfast commitment, and a life marked by integrity. He was also deeply devoted to the ministry of The Gideons International, supporting the distribution of God’s Word throughout the world. His faith was not merely something he professed; it was the source of his strength, the guide for his decisions, and the hope he shared with others.

Above all, Robert was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His love for his family was expressed through his steady presence, sacrifices, wise counsel, and unwavering support. He was a source of strength and security to those he loved, and his family will remember not only what he provided, but also the example he gave them. His greatest legacy is found in the lives of his family, his students, his church, and the many people he served.

Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Margaret Smith, affectionately known as “Ms. M”; his grandson, Tristan Sullivan Smith; and his parents, Nelson and Esther Smith.

He is survived by his two sons, Robert Nelson Smith (Dr. Lori Smith) and Jonathan Sullivan Smith; three grandchildren, Morgan Mabry Smith, Tyler Sullivan Smith (Alexsandra), and Braden Clark Smith; and his sister, Grace Gibson (Larry), along with extended family members and many dear friends.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026, at DeKalb Baptist Church in DeKalb, Mississippi. Visitation will begin at 9:45 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 10:30 a.m.

Graveside services and burial will follow at Rush Cemetery in the Kipling community of Kemper County, Mississippi.

Webb & Stephens is entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Gideons International, an organization close to Robert’s heart and one through which he faithfully supported the sharing of God’s Word around the world.

Robert’s life was a testimony to the enduring power of faith, family, education, service, and devotion. Through the people he taught, the community he served, the faith he lived, and the family he loved, his influence will continue for generations to come.