Mei Smith

January 29,1929 - May 27, 2026

Mei Smith – lovingly known as “Meisan,” “Mamasan” and “Grandma” – passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 97 on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, generosity, and devotion to family. Graveside services will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. 

Although born in Los Angeles, California, Mei grew up in Japan and immigrated to the United States after marrying the love of her life, her beloved husband, Paris (Smitty), at the age of 30. Arriving in America without knowing the language or culture, Mei courageously built a beautiful life through determination, grace, and kindness. She and Smitty made their home in Jacksonville, NC where Mei was warmly embraced by a wide circle of lifelong friends and neighbors who quickly came to love her gentle spirit and generous heart.

As a military spouse during Smitty’s multiple tours of duty in Vietnam, Mei became the steady foundation of the family. While raising her children and managing the household, she also worked as a skilled seamstress and stay-at-home Mom, doing whatever was needed to provide for and care for those she loved. Through every challenge, she remained the family’s constant source of strength, comfort, and unconditional love.

With her passion for sewing, Mei also learned the skill of making kimonos. She dedicated countless hours making beautiful kimonos for many of her Asian friends.

Mei was especially known for her endless generosity, her constant laugh, and for expressing her love through cooking. No one ever left her home hungry. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and togetherness, where family and friends were always welcomed with abundance and care.

Mei was preceded in death by her beloved brother, Saturo Toyoda of Arcadia, California, with whom she was able to reconnect with after 47 years of being apart. She is survived by her loving spouse Paris George, Jr. (Smitty), her son Michael (spouse Debbie), son Kenneth (spouse Tracy), and daughter Linda; her cherished grandchildren, Andrew (spouse Hannah), Kurt (spouse Julie), Brennen, Alyssa, and Maylin; and her adored great-grandchildren, Anna, Alex, and Autumn. She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Sushi, who brought her much comfort and companionship.

Though deeply missed, Mei’s love, sacrifices, traditions, and gentle spirit will continue to live on through the family she so faithfully nurtured and the many lives she touched throughout her remarkable 97 years.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Jones Funeral Home, Jacksonville.