Mary Margaret Akers Smith, age 98, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026.
Margaret was born in Lebanon, Indiana, to Harry and Loyce Jeffries Akers. She graduated from Lebanon High School and attended Butler University. She was a loving sister to Annabelle (Gilbert) Harris and Jim (Evelyn) Akers.
Margaret was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her children, John (Linda) Trips and Peggy (Tim) Pehlke as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren who brought her great joy throughout her life.
Margaret was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leland Smith; her daughter, Dorothy Bernstein; her brother, Jim Akers; and brother-in-law Gilbert Harris.
Margaret and Leland made their home in Lebanon until the late 1960s, when they moved to Lauderdale by Sea, Florida. In the 1980s, they settled on their five-acre ranch in Sebring, Florida, where they enjoyed the beauty and tranquility of country life. Margaret was an active volunteer at the library in Sebring and found great fulfillment in serving her community. She was a Lady Elk, Eastern Star and also an American Legion Lady Auxiliary.
Margaret had a lifelong love of reading, especially mystery novels, and never passed up an opportunity to enjoy a good game of BINGO or Scrabble. Loved playing slots at the Casino. She loved watching basketball and her favorite Larry Bird, along with her nightly Dateline. She will be remembered for her warm spirit, her love of family, and the simple pleasures that brought happiness to her life.
Margaret’s legacy lives on through the generations of family and friends who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.
Services and Entombment will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Oak Hill Cemetery Mausoleum in Lebanon, Indiana. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Elks Lodge in Lebanon, where family and friends are invited to gather and share memories of Margaret’s remarkable life.
Donations can be made to a library of your choice.