Betty Joyce Strickland Saunders Smith, a longtime resident of Pelham, Alabama, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 7th, 2024. Betty was born in Birmingham, Alabama on February 21st, 1938 to Clinton Avant "C.A." and Nora Lee Strickland. Betty attended Hemphill Elementary School and West End High School, where she was a cheerleader. She also attended Auburn University and graduated from Samford University with a degree in Home Economics. After graduation, she worked as a Home Service Advisor for the Power Company, and later was a homemaker. She enjoyed painting, drawing and playing the piano, and created many beautiful works. She was a dedicated and loving wife, mother and friend. Betty survived two beloved husbands, Donald "Don" Courtney Saunders, Jr. and Richard Arlen Smith. She is survived by her son, Richard Scott Smith, who loved his mom with all of his heart; her brother, Terry Clinton Strickland; her niece, Pamela Jill Strickland; and her nephew, Stephen Mark Strickland. Visitation will be on Sunday, August 11th, 2024 at Johns-Ridout's Elmwood Chapel from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m., followed by a Chapel Service at 2:00 p.m., concluding with a Graveside service at Elmwood Cemetery.
