Betty Jo Smith

Betty Jo Smith, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 25th surrounded by her loving family in Clearwater, FL. She was 95. Born in Clarksville, Tennessee, to Charles C. Sawyer and Ella Norton Suggs Sawyer, Betty Jo was the ninth of thirteen children and the last surviving sibling-a remarkable milestone that reflects a life well-lived and deeply rooted in family. She was a graduate of Clarksville High School, Class of 1949. Betty Jo lived a life marked by grace, adventure, resilience and an unwavering dedication to those she loved. Betty Jo was known for her warmth, kind heart, and gentle spirit. She dedicated much of her life to her family, raising three children with strength and love. A long-time resident of Houston Texas for over 65 years, Betty Jo recently relocated to Clearwater, FL to live with her daughter and granddaughter. For more than four decades, she worked faithfully beside her beloved husband, Turner Smith, as office manager of their masonry contracting and consulting business. Following Turner's fatal illness, she continued to manage the family real estate ventures including warehouses and U.S. post office buildings-a testament to her strong will and capability. Betty Jo was a devoted member of Park Place Methodist Church for over 40 years and later continued her faith journey at First United Methodist Church of Pasadena, Texas. Her faith remained a guiding light throughout her life. Together, Betty Jo and Turner shared a passion for travel and adventure. They explored 46 states and journeyed abroad to destinations across Europe, Russia, the Middle East, Asia, and Mexico-creating a life of beautiful memories together. Betty Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Turner Smith, and her dear sons, T. Greg Smith and Arthur W. Smith. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Belinda Smith of Clearwater, FL; grandchildren Sage Pooler, Brandel Smith (Kristie) and Zachary Smith (Mai Wyn); and her great-grandchildren Aiden Smith and Nova Smith. The family is profoundly grateful for the loving caregivers in Clearwater who tenderly supported Betty in her later years. Graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 10th at 10 am at Sango Cemetery on Sango Drive, Clarksville, TN. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made in her honor to Suncoast Hospice of Pinellas County, a division of Empath Health or Sango United Methodist Church in Tennessee. Betty Jo Smith will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, strength and grace will live on in all who knew her! To send flowers to the family of Betty, please visit our floral store.