Marvin Lee Smith, Jr.

Marvin Lee Smith Jr.

Marvin Lee Smith, Jr., age 83, former resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and longtime resident of Orange Beach, Alabama, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Wednesday, June 10th, 2026.

Born on January 14, 1943, in Memphis, Tennessee, Marvin was the son of the late Marvin Lee Smith, Sr., and Margaret Jackson Smith. He graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1966 and began his career in the automobile industry at Woodfin-Smith Pontiac, the dealership founded by his father. Marvin would go on to build a successful career in the car business and later founded Royal Datsun (now Royal Nissan) in Baton Rouge in 1978.

Marvin was preceded in death by his wife of 37 years and the love of his life, Carol Anderson Smith, as well as his sisters, Sandra Smith Longmire and Sally Smith Whitley. He is survived by his daughter, Reneé Smith Lefeaux (Eddie); his son, Lee Bradley Smith (Monique); his grandchildren, Madeline Lee Lefeaux, Allison Grace Lefeaux, Hannah Katelyn Smith, and Connor Bradley Smith; and his sister, Ann Harrison Smith Brewer.

Marvin had a remarkable gift for turning life’s experiences into stories worth sharing. Whether recalling adventures, lessons learned, or moments spent with family and friends, he had a way of bringing memories to life through conversation, laughter, and wisdom. A devoted father and grandfather, he was a best friend to both of his children and a constant source of guidance and encouragement.

Marvin was an active member of Rotary Club of Baton Rouge and an avid golfer at Baton Rouge Country Club, where he enjoyed spending hours on the course with his golf group and many dear friends. In his later years, Marvin found peace and happiness in Orange Beach, Alabama. Some of his favorite moments were spent watching the sunset over the bay and spending time with his grandchildren.

Known by many as the “Mayor of Orange Beach,” Marvin never met a stranger. He seemed to know everyone, and everyone seemed to know Marvin. Whether sharing stories, making introductions, or simply stopping to visit, he had a unique gift for connecting with people and making them feel like friends.

He was known for his good humor, generous spirit, and genuine interest in others. Those who knew him will remember his laughter, his stories, and his unwavering love for family. Though he will be deeply missed, Marvin’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the wisdom he shared, and the countless stories that will continue to be told.

A private memorial service will be held by the family at a later date.