News Summary
Molly Essary Smith, a dedicated public servant and matriarch of the Pasadena community, has passed away following an accident at home. Her extensive contributions to public service, education, and the community have left a lasting impact. She served as a Justice of the Peace, engaged with local organizations, and recently transitioned to a Funeral Director, continuing her mission to support families in need. Molly’s legacy will be remembered through her family, civic contributions, and community dedication.
Pasadena, Texas – Molly Essary Smith, a beloved community servant and family matriarch, tragically passed away on July 8, 2025, following a fall at her home in Wisconsin. She was 68 years old and made significant contributions to her community throughout her life.
Born on January 18, 1957, in Houston, Texas, Molly was the fourth daughter of Dawson Herman Essary and Mary Emily Graham Essary. She was preceded in death by both of her parents. Molly’s grandparents were prominent figures among the original founders of Galena Park, Texas, and played vital roles in supporting the local church and community.
Molly attended Galena Park High School, where she and her three sisters—Diana Kurten, Deborah Parrott, and Candy Sherbert—gained recognition as the “Essary Sisters.” Following high school, she enhanced her education at San Jacinto Junior College as a member of the “San-Jans” marching drill team. Molly later competed in the prestigious Miss Texas Contest, which earned her a scholarship to Texas A&M University, where she pursued a degree in philosophy. She ultimately completed her studies at the University of Houston Clear Lake.
In 1979, Molly married Jimmie (Chip) Maness and relocated to Deer Park, Texas, where they raised their three children: Mary Kathryn (Katy) Maness-Kerbow, Candace Lauren Winton, and Jimmie (Ryan) Maness. Molly took pride in watching her children grow; Katy has two children, Emily Nicole Cotton and Easton James Kerbow, while Candace is married to Ronald Dale Winton and has a son named Logan Ethington.
Molly embarked on a meaningful career in public service when she worked under Commissioner Jim Fonteno. Following this, she was elected as Justice of the Peace in Precinct 8, where she served for 20 years starting in 1988. During her tenure, her focus on truancy and juvenile issues positively influenced thousands of lives in the Pasadena community.
In addition to her judicial responsibilities, Molly was actively involved in several civic organizations, including the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce, Deer Park Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary Club. She also contributed her talents as an Emcee, singer, and entertainer at the Hometown Opry for over a decade, showcasing her dedication to community engagement.
Beyond her political career, Molly maintained a strong commitment to education by participating on the San Jacinto College Foundation Board, which aimed to support students in pursuing secondary education. In 2008, after dedicating 25 years to politics, she transitioned her career to become a Funeral Director, where she continued to provide essential support to families in need during difficult times.
In 2014, she married Carroll Smith, the owner of Monument Chevrolet. Through this union, Molly welcomed two sons, W.C. and Brandon Smith, along with their families, into her life, creating a blended family of five children and eight grandchildren. Molly and Carroll shared a love for travel and had the opportunity to explore all seven continents together during their marriage.
Visitation services for Molly Essary Smith will be held on July 25 from 5 PM to 8 PM at Geo. H. Lewis & Sons in Houston. A funeral service will be conducted the following day, July 26, at 11 AM at First Baptist Church in Pasadena, officiated by Reverend Dr. Jon Redmond. The family plans to have a private inurnment at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The San Jacinto College Foundation or Camp H-Town, honoring Molly’s legacy of service and community dedication.
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- Dignity Memorial: Molly Essary Smith Obituary
- Wikipedia: Community Service
- Dignity Memorial: Molly Essary Smith Life Tribute
- Google Search: Molly Essary Smith
- Dignity Memorial: Visitation and Funeral Details
