Betty Jean Smith

Betty Jean (Grimes) Smith passed away peacefully on the morning of April 26, 2026 at the age of 93. She was born in English, Indiana on September 15, 1932, to the late Ray and Ruth Audrey (Patton) Grimes.

Betty married her beloved husband, James O. Smith on January 1, 1950. Together they shared 67 years of love and laughter up until his death on December 7, 2017, at the age of 91.

Betty loved her flowers and gardening at her home and in her assisted living community. She worked on rentals over the years along with building 5 homes with the help of her husband and their family. She loved playing piano and would often play for the residents at her assisted living. When she wasn’t behind the piano, she could be found participating in bingo or craft making. Betty was always willing to help others in any way she could. She will be truly missed by her family and friends.

Betty is survived by her children; Shirley Holdcroft, Larry (Martha) Smith, and Sandy (Don) Duncan. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Jimmy Smith, Dusty (Mandy) Smith, Matthew Osborne, Katrina Williams, Dan (Lauren) Holdcroft, Jonathan (Mindy) Duncan, Matt (Heather) Duncan, Stacy (Drew) Farrer; along with 13 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Jerome Grimes; sister, Bonnie Brown; and brother, Edward Grimes.

Betty will be remembered by her love for her family and friends. Memorial donations can be made in Betty’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 11:00AM to 1:00PM at Flanner Buchanan – Floral Park Funeral Center. Funeral Services will begin at 1:00PM.

Betty will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Jimmy, in West Ridge Park Cemetery following her funeral service.