Betty Smith

Betty Joe Morris Smith was born to the late George Morris and Daisy Gill on a cold day of January 11, 1954.

She was a 1972 graduate of Strong High School, where she formed lifelong friendships. She began working at Cooper Tire following graduation and remained there until her retirement in 2005.

She met, dated, and married the love of her life, Elder Larry Smith, on July 20, 1973, and enjoyed over 52 wonderful years of marriage. From this union, two beautiful daughters were born, Teresa and LaTasha Smith.

In her early years, she was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church and later became a faithful member of Pine Grove Primitive Baptist Church under the leadership of her husband, Elder Larry Smith. She was a faithful member until her health began to decline. Betty wore many hats proudly during her earthly journey. She stood boldly as a Pastor's wife, devoted mother, and grandmother affectionately called "MeMaw."

She was a member of the Cooper Tire softball team and participated in couples bowling with her husband, where they were affectionately known as the 'Dynamic Duo.' You could often catch her and her sister, Betty Zane, fishing together.

Preceded in Death By Her parents, George Morris and Daisy Gill; her sisters Ella Mae Perry, Mattie Ruth Smith, Billie Beirk Willis, Billie Jean Brown, Billie Dove Willis, Zella Mae Bell, and Beatrice Morris Melvin; and her brother Early Tom Brown.

Left to Cherish Her memory are her husband, Elder Larry Smith; daughters Teresa (Raymond) Taylor and LaTasha Smith; sister Betty Zane Robinson; brother George W. (Helen) Morris; grandchildren Keyuana, Keynan, Bryson, and Devin; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Special friends/classmates: Ella Lyons, Jannie Lee James, and Rena Gentle.