Kathleen Frances Rank Smith

Mrs. Kathleen Smith, of Biloxi, MS, passed away peacefully in the loving arms of her family after a six month courageous battle with cancer, on Wednesday, February 15, 2012. Kathleen began her life on September 27, 1951, in Springfield, Illinois. She was one of three children born to George and Mary Rank. She lived in Springfield for many years, then moved to Houston, Texas, finally settling in Biloxi, Mississippi to be with her daughter and grandchildren. Kathy was a dealer at the Beau Rivage and was one of its original employees when the casino opened in march 1999. Her employment with the Beau was continuous with the exception of the casino's closure after Hurricane Katrina. Kathy was fortunate to have had little damage to her home so she chose to spend her year away from work volunteering early on and long after the disaster helping people and animals obtain food, shelter and clothing. Throughout her short life, her greatest passion and lifelong mission was animal rescue and she was personally responsible for saving hundreds of unwanted animals over her lifetime. She was a regular volunteer for many years at the Harrison County Humane Society. At the time of her passing, she was providing a temporary home for eight dogs and four cats, lovingly caring for them until they could find their forever home. She was involved with several animal rescue societies, especially Chinese Crested Rescue. It was her wish and mission to educate and encourage pet owners to spay and neuter their pets, and to adopt from local humane societies and pet rescue organizations. Her love and devotion to animals was only exceeded by her love for her daughter and grandchildren. She lived for her family, and "Moo-Moo", as she was known to them, enjoyed taking them to waterparks, zoos and playing with them at every available opportunity. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Mavar; son-in-law, Mark Mavar; grandchildren, Jarrod Lesso, Caty Lesso, Christopher Mavar and Ryan Mavar; her brother, George Rank; and sister, Monica Schroeder-Lanoux; and nephews, Daniel Schroeder and Ryan Schroeder. Kathy will long be remembered for incredibly caring and gentle spirit. The family wishes to thank their many friends who have sent prayers and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, it was Kathy's wish that donations be made to the Humane Society of the United States, www.humanesociety.org. The family expresses their gratitude to the doctors and staff of M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Memorial Hospital at Gulfport staff, especially Dr. Pam Tuli and the wonderful nursing Staff. A special appreciation is extended to Odyssey Hospice for the care and attention they provided. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 17, 2012, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church were friends may visit one hour before service time. Interment will follow in Southern Memorial Park. Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, 675 Howard Avenue, in Biloxi is in charge of arrangements.