Jeanette Marnez Smith, affectionately known as "Aunt Jeanette", was born on January 2, 1947, in Charleston, West Virginia to the late Philip and Margaret Smith.

She accepted Jesus Christ into her heart at a young age and lived out her faith with everlasting devotion.  Her commitment to the Lord, her family, and community was evident in every season of her life.  Jeanette was educated in Kanawha County Public Schools and later received her early Childhood Degree from New Careers.  After 29 years of service, Jeanette retired from Blue Cross and Blue Shield as a Claims Processor.  Though out her life, Jeanette maintained employment from Parks and Recreation as a Youth Director, CAMC Memorial Hospital as a Sterile Processor, and an Early Childhood Educator for toddlers.

Jeanette knew how to enjoy life.  She lit up a room with her tall stature, inviting smile, laughter, and effortless dancing skills.

Jeanette is preceded in death by brothers, Alvin Williamson, Frank Robert, and Melvin Smith; sons, Tony and Mark Desper, Sr.; Thomas Desper Sr.; nephews, Butch and Jerome Desper, James Bennett, and Edward Smith; nieces, Donna and Devin Desper; brother-in-law, Joseph Desper; along with her sisters-in-law, Edna Fuller, Vivian Williams, Martha, and Virginia Desper.

Jeanette leaves to cherish her memories are son, Thomas "Tee" Desper of Charleston, WV; daughter, Tina Law (David) of Florida; brothers, Philip Smith, Jr. of WV, William Smith of Washington DC; sisters, Ruby Smith of Charleston, WV and Helen Desper of Washington DC; granddaughters, Nomora Jordan of Ohio, Jamie Miller of Indiana, Alexia and Kahia Law of Florida, Barbara Jean and Launia Smith of WV; grandsons, Mark Desper, Jr. of Virginia and Jason Foster of Michigan; and great-grandson, T'Khi Jordan of Ohio.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m on Friday, April 3, 2026 at  Emmanuel Baptist Church with burial to follow in Springhill Cemetery.

Family will welcome visitors one hour prior to the service at the church.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.
www.kellerfuneralhome.net