Madeline "Mat" Smith Rucker gained her wings and left her earthly home on Thursday, January 27, 2022. Mat was born on June 27, 1927, in Piney River, Virginia, to the late Woodrow "Woody" Jones and Mildred Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Chester Rucker.

Mat was raised by her grandparents, Nathan and Pearl Smith, and grew up with many of her aunts and uncles. She attended Amherst County Training School and was employed by and retired from Sweet Briar College. Her spiritual training began at an early age at St. Mary's Baptist Church where she was baptized at age 11. Mat remained a faithful and dedicated member at St. Mary's for more than 80 years, actively participating on numerous committees and clubs, including the Deaconess Board, Senior Choir, Usher Board, Good Samaritan Club and Pastor's Aid Club until her failing health rendered her inactive. One of her favorite church activities was the hat fundraiser in which she proudly showcased her many hats. No way was she going to church without her hat. Mat also was an avid gardener and loved her houseplants. She enjoyed traveling to Philadelphia to visit relatives and visiting neighboring churches with her pastor.

Madeline was a warm and caring person and always greeted everyone with a smile. It was probably that smile that captured the attention of her late husband, Chester, whom she affectionately called her "honey bun". While she did not have nay children, she cared for and treated her younger cousins as if they were her own.

Mat leaves to cherish her memory one loving sister, Marie Isley of Greensboro, NC; four nieces, Sheila Kitson of New York, NY, Gail Carter of Alexandria, VA, Cynthia Carter of Rockville, MD and Jo Anne Zieglar of New York, NY; two nephews, Harold Carter, Jr. of Greensboro, NC and Maurice Carter of Washington, DC; two great nieces; two great nephews; one great-great niece; three uncles, James Smith of Landover, MD, Fred Smith (Vernell) of Amherst, VA and Harold Smith of Arrington, VA; numerous cousins, other relatives and friends.

A graveside service will be held 2PM Saturday, February 05, 2022, at the Smith Family Cemetery with Rev. Troy Anderson, Eulogist.