Just days short of her 97th birthday, Maggie Smith ended a long, exciting, and rewarding life. Born to parents Earl and Josephine Autry, Maggie grew up in East Texas, and graduated from Marquez High School in 1943. After a brief time in Houston, Texas, Maggie married Dallas Smith in 1947, and moved to Ralls, Texas.

In 1963 Maggie and Dallas moved to Coyanosa, Texas, to grow cotton, vegetables, and some of the best cantaloupe in the world. They moved to Fort Stockton, Texas, in 1965, and in 1966 Maggie set out on a venture that would forever change her life and her community. She opened what came to be known as Maggie’s Gifts and Antiques, and for over 27 years she was a fixture in Fort Stockton and West Texas.

She brought the world of gifts and giving to Fort Stockton. In the process she hired many people, and was always proudest of the young ladies she taught by example to be responsible and independent.

Maggie traveled the world, but in 2004 settled down with her soulmate Joe Lanier in Abilene, Texas. She lived there until her passing on Sept. 27, 2022. She is survived by her son, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Maggie will be laid to rest next to Joe in the East Hill Cemetery in Fort Stockton. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the American Cancer Society or the Fort Stockton Church of Christ.