Betty Jean Houston Smith

Betty Jean Houston Smith, a beloved member of her community and a dedicated caregiver, passed away on September 24, 2024 at the age of 72. Born on June 22, 1952, Betty's life was one filled with compassion and service to others.

Betty dedicated a significant portion of her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) a role through which she impacted the lives of many. Her journey in this rewarding field included her employment at Trace Haven Nursing Home and Shady Lawn Nursing Home, from which she ultimately retired. Her commitment to providing care for those in need exemplified her nurturing spirit and unwavering dedication.

Academically, Betty attended Rosa A. Temple High School, later obtaining her General Educational Development (GED) from Utica Junior College. While studying there, she also achieved her Culinary Certification, reflecting her passion not only for caring for people but also for nourishing them.

Betty leaves behind a loving family, including her three daughters, Sandra Smith, Angela Smith, and Donna Walker, and her son, Ruthell Smith. She was a proud grandmother to nine granddaughters: LaTasha, LaToya, and LaTaki Smith, all residing in Vicksburg, MS; LaTonya Smith of Edwards, MS; Kimberly Smith of Grapevine, TX; Keira Smith of Phoenix, AZ; Jeniqua Smith of Allen, TX; Racquel Hyland of Dallas, TX; and Akia Brown of Vicksburg, MS. Additionally, she had four grandsons: Deitric Grant, Michael Buchanan, and King Jacob Smith, all of Vicksburg, MS, and Damion Smith of Desota, TX. Betty cherished her role as a matriarch, also enjoying the company of fifteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.

Her legacy will also be remembered by her sister, Mattie Daniels (Eddie, Sr.) of Chicago, IL, one aunt, Barbara Williams of Vicksburg, MS, and a host of relatives and friends, including the Wright, Williams, Wilson, Houston, Ray, Reed, Ivory, Fisher, and Pendleton families.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, L. C. Smith and Lois Houston, four brothers—Jessie Wells, McKinley Turner, Ronnie Houston, and Carl Houston—and three sisters, JoAnn H. Martin, Louella Nortfort, and Doris Boyd.

Visitation services for Betty Jean Houston Smith will be held on October 8, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at C J Williams Mortuary Center, located at 1625 Monroe Street, Vicksburg, MS 39180. The funeral service will follow on October 9, 2024, starting at 12:00 PM and concluding at 1:00 PM at the same location.

Betty Jean Houston Smith will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and the enduring love she shared with her family and friends. Her legacy of caring for others will continue to inspire all who knew her.