WEST CITY – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Melissa “Marie” Smith, age 67, of West City. She passed away at 12:45 p.m. Saturday, November 15, 2025, surrounded by her daughter, Amanda; and grandchildren Lilly, Lyle, Landon, and Lexis; and her boyfriend, Pete. Marie battled cancer for eight years before it took her home to Heaven.

She was a loving mother and grandmother who adored her grandchildren. Marie loved spending time outdoors with them. She enjoyed planting flowers, gardening, going to yard sales, traveling, and McDonald’s sweet tea.

Melissa Marie Smith was born on November 30, 1957, the daughter of Herbert Smith and Geneva (Zalenski) Smith.

She was a member of Forest Baptist Church of Benton.

Surviving are her loving daughter, Amanda Smith of West City, IL; four grandchildren: Lilly Marie Slack, Lyle Dale Slack, Landon Devo Slack, and Lexis Geneva Shepard; her life partner, Willard “Pete” Parker of West City, IL; two brothers: Robert E. Hines and wife Karen of Benton, IL, and Bobby Wood and wife Melody of Ortonville, MI; three sisters: Jo Ann Stewart of Mt. Vernon, IL, Gloria Overturf of Benton, IL, and Marsha Kay Eubanks and husband George of Benton, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband and love of her life, Billy Dean Millikan, Sr.; her parents; and an infant sister.

Marie’s wishes were to be cremated. A Celebration of Life Service will be announced in the near future.

The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the services.

To give condolences online to the family or to share memories of Marie, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com