Mauri Denea Smith

Ms. Mauri Denea Smith, 63, of Canton GA and formerly of Albany, passed away on Saturday morning, January 3, 2026, at Northside Hospital Cherokee, in Canton. Heaven gained a beautiful soul as she entered eternity and the presence of her Savior. Blessed with incredible talent, Mauri was truly an angel among us with a heavenly voice that ministered to countless people during her time here on earth. 

Mauri was born in Milledgeville, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her brother, Charles “Chuck” Smith, her mother, Wadene Goode Smith, and her beloved dog, Oscar. She is survived by her father, Rev. Charles Ervin Smith (Jackie), brother Scott Michael Smith (Betty); nieces Lauren Leigh Graf, Julie Smith Mabry (Mac), Tori Smith Davis (Otto), Tessa Smith (Cody- fiancé); great-nieces and nephews London (Jack- fiancé), Sydney and Kaleb Popp, and Jack and Mila Graf, Molly and Mary Mabry; Abbi, Hayes, and Emmy Davis; Carter Randen; lifelong best friend Trish Keller; adopted nieces and nephews Benjamin Keller (Sarah), Jon-Paul Keller (Emily), Katrina Scott (Matthew), Christian Keller (Rachel); adopted grandkids Anna Keller, Evelyn and Isla Keller, Walker Scott, Elijah and Levi Keller; and her beloved dog, Gracie. 

From a young age, Mauri’s musical talent was very obvious as she supported her father by singing and playing various instruments in numerous church services and specials in churches throughout southern Georgia, including First Assembly Adel and First Assembly Albany. Mauri attended Westover High School where she played trumpet in the marching band. Upon graduating, Mauri attended college in Columbus, Georgia, as well as at Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Florida. She began her professional career as a licensed optician, going on to work with Pearl Optical, Dr. John Dixon, and Walmart. 

Mauri’s talents took her many places. She sang backup for Michael Bolton and also served in the Worship ministry of several churches, including Tabernacle, Life Church, World Harvest, and The Gathering. Most recently, Mauri was employed by the Georgia Department of Public Health for nearly 20 years, where she worked her way to the role of Director of Talent Acquisition, as well as the District and Policy Coordinator. Above all else, Mauri had a heart for the Lord. Be it through leading worship, assisting with church administration, or simply sharing her bold and unwavering faith with those around her, Mauri lived a life to be admired. She met each challenge life threw at her with a bold belief that God was in control and her faith remained rooted in that fact. Mauri leaves behind a legacy of faith and steadfast hope in the One True God and His never-ending faithfulness.

Graveside funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in the Bronwood Cemetery with Rev. Gary Smith officiating. The family will visit with friends following the service at the cemetery.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026, 4100 King Springs Road SE, Smyrna Georgia 30082.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Samaritan's Purse.