Casey Marion Smith

Casey Marion Smith, Sr., 83, was born in Moorhead, Mississippi on April 4, 1929,He was the beloved husband of Joan (McIntire) Smith, whom he married in 1948.
Affectionately known as Marion, Dad, Poppa, Pop and Uncle Son, he was a benevolent husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He was known for his passion for Jesus Christ, faithfulness to his church, love for his family, zest for life and generosity toward his fellow man. He will be long remembered for down-home spun humor, quick wit and story-telling. He loved to collect antiques (said "he was antique too" in later years) and enjoyed displaying his collection in 'Poppas Country Museum.'
Marion Smith moved to Choctaw County in 1942. He graduated from Ackerman High School in 1948 as the first student body president and was president of his senior class. He was a proud member of the 1947 Championship Football Team while playing the first game on the new Dale Davidson Football Field. Marion served two terms as Town Alderman and worked as Public Works Superintendent, Fire Chief, Deputy Marshall for eleven years and remained one of Ackerman and Choctaw County's most avid ambassadors. Marion organized and directed the first Fire Department in Ackerman was founder and President Emeritus of the annual Ackerman School Reunion.
Marion then established himself as an aspiring entrepreneur, having co-founded and managed several successful state-wide water works supply businesses. He was a member of the Ackerman Masonic Lodge #119 and the Gideon's International. He retired in 1985 and his love for woodworking prompted him to begin his own business called 'Poppas Country.' Poppa was a skilled master craftsman whose handiwork adorns many area households.