Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Smith

With great sadness, her family announces the death of Elizabeth A. (Betty) Smith.  She died at her home on October 1, 2025.  Jessica Belfiore, her best friend and caregiver was with her at the time of her death.

Formerly of Dayton, Ohio.

Born 7/21/1928 to Herbert W. and Grace B. Smith

Graduated Fairview White High School in 1946.

She received the American Legion award for citizenship, was a member of National Honor Society, secretary for her senior class and elected May Queen.

Attended Lincoln Memorial University where she met her best friend, love of her life, and husband Paul Smith. 70+ years married. Had first date 11/1/1946. Married 1/28/1948. They graduated from Cincinnati College of Pharmacy with a B.S in pharmacy in 1950 together. Paul died 11/1/2018, the 72nd anniversary of their first date.

Moved to Clinton, TN in 1950 to bring up two wonderful children, Barbara J. Smith and husband Mike Roberts and William H. Smith and wife Beth Wychoff Smith. Last original resident on Highland Dr. Oak Heights subdivision (first subdivision in Clinton, TN.)

Member of First Baptist Church where she helped in pre-school for many years. Received the Home Town Hero award from Home Federal Bank for helping in the Christian Service Center. Volunteered at Interfaith Health Clinic. Member of Timely Topics and Girl Scouts where she received the Thanks award in 1969 and the Thanks II award in 1996 for the help in the Daisy's Place museum. Was a second degree black belt in Isshin-Ryu Karate.

Began work at Norris Drug Store and later Elm Grove Drug Store in Oak Ridge, TN. Finished working at Clinton Drug Co with her husband for 21 years as one of the first female pharmacist in the Clinton area. Loved to hike and the outdoors. Made 17 trips to Mt. LeConte. Enjoyed cooking, especially banana bread and giving it away, and crossword puzzles. survived by my children and sister Shirley Haefele of Rochester, New York, many wonderful friends and cousins and neighbors, Carisa and Jason, Cloyds, Jack Jones, and best friend and caregiver Jessica.  Jessica and Betty were each other's sidekicks, going everywhere together and sharing a profound relationship.  Many people thought Jessica was the daughter; Betty, her mom.  They never corrected anyone about this, just acted as if it were true.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 PM on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton, TN.   A funeral service will follow immediately.  The service will be conducted by Rev. Terry Baker and Dr. Daniel Chisholm.  Music to be provided by Rev. David Whipple, Jr, accompanied by Charlotte Bounds.   Interment following cremation will be at 3 PM on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Grandview Memorial Garden in Clinton, TN. Those who wish to participate in the funeral procession should gather at Holley Gamble Funeral Home beginning at 2:15 PM.  The procession will leave promptly at 2:30 PM.  Dr. Daniel Chisholm will conduct a devotional and prayer prior to interment.

Favorite Quote:

All things, bright and beautiful and all creatures great and small all things wise and wonderful the Lord God made them all.

-James Harriet

Favorite Bible verse:

With God all things are possible.

No flowers please. Donate to:

First Baptist Church

P.O. Box 268

Clinton, TN 37717

Interfaith Health Clinic

315Gill Ave.

Knoxville, TN 37917-7209

Girl Scout Museum at Daisy's Place

GSCSA

1567 Downtown West Blvd

Knoxville, TN 37919

Or charity of your choice.

Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Smith family. www.Holleygamble.com.