Betty Jo Smith

Betty Jo Smith, 76, originally of Atlanta, GA and resident of Columbus, GA for the past 33 years, passed away August 9, 2015 at Magnolia Manor. Betty suffered from Parkinson's disease for many years and died peacefully surrounded by her family. A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday August 12, 2015 in the Chapel of First Baptist Church with Ric Clark officiating. There will be a private interment at Parkhill Cemetery.

Mrs. Smith, daughter of the late Ralph Franklin Ward and late Anna Lorraine Martin Ward, was born in Atlanta, GA on January 6, 1939. She was a secretary for many years for companies like Dupont, Heinz and W. C. Bradley. Mrs. Smith was a member of First Baptist Church. She loved spending time with her family and enjoyed sewing, gardening, cooking, going to church and Bible study. Mrs. Smith lived her life by the teachings of the Holy Bible. Her love for Jesus Christ shined through in the examples of her everyday life. She was the epitome of a Southern lady who was kind, giving and always put others first. Mrs. Smith was soft spoken, humorous and could win over anyone she met with her warm smile and genuine compassion for others. She touched so many lives with her kind and friendly demeanor. Mrs. Smith will be truly missed by anyone and everyone who cared for her.

Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Rebecca Gordon; brother Ralph Franklin Ward; brothers-in-law Red Gordon and Jerry Smith; sister-in-law Verlyn Ward. Survivors include her husband of 33 years, Donald Smith of Richland, GA; daughters Sandee Clark (Ric) of Dahlonega. GA and Shannon Flemming (Brian) of Columbus, GA; son Lane Brown Jr. (Kellie) of Virginia Beach, VA; grandchildren Austin Clark, Savannah Clark, Zachary Brown and Kayla Flemming; sister Elizabeth Turner; sisters-in-law Betty Sue Dowda, Barbara Moore (Charlie), Jean Norman (Lev) and Peggy Smith; brother-in-law Jeff Smith (Kim); along with many other relatives and friends.

Flowers will be accepted, memorial donations may be made to the Grover T. and Louise H. Smith Charitable Fund, Community Foundation of Chattahoochee Valley, 1340 13th Street Columbus, GA 31901-2346.

Online condolences may be offered at www.shcolumbus.com.