Maggie Lue Smith

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, Maggie married Dallas Smith in 1947 and moved to Ralls Texas.

In 1963, Maggie and Dallas moved to Coyanosa to grow cotton, vegetables and some of the best cantaloupe in the world. They moved into Fort Stockton 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 September 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.