Elizabeth "Betty" Smith

Elizabeth A. “Betty” Smith, 81, of Ottawa, Kansas passed away Monday, January 12, 2015 at Ottawa Retirement Village. Cremation is planned. Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 15, 2015 at Dengel & Son Mortuary. Family will meet with friends following the service. Betty was born Thursday, January 26, 1933 in Clay Center, Kansas, the daughter of Jonathan “Jay” and Imogene (Sheldon) Todd. A near lifelong resident, Betty made her home in Ottawa until her death. She attended Ottawa schools. Betty was united in marriage with Virgil Smith in 1950. They later divorced. Survivors include her two children, Sue Harsch of Garnett, and Mark Smith of Topeka; two sisters, Cheryl McClay and husband Michael of Columbia, South Carolina, and Jayne Turner and husband Roger of Ottawa; stepmother, Gwen Todd of Ottawa; stepbrother, Travis Potter of Parkville, Missouri; five grandchildren, Lisa Marie Caylor of Lenexa, Gary Ray Caylor of Blue Mound, Adam Lee Caylor of Garnett, Alyse Jane Smith of Olathe and Jordan Jay Smith of Topeka; three great grandchildren; and two nephews, Devin Andrew and Bryan Garrett Turner. She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Kimberly J. Smith; and stepbrother, Joe Gibson. Betty was a homemaker, also working as an assembler for Hallmark Cards, and was a receptionist for Todd Insurance. She was a member of the Ottawa Shrine #19, White Shrine of Jerusalem. Betty loved KU Basketball, watching Turner Classic Movies, attending church services, playing games and especially enjoyed her winning streak at Bingo. She was known for her razor-sharp memory. She will be deeply missed and remain in the hearts and thoughts of her family and friends forever. The family suggests memorial contributions to Elizabeth Layton Center New Beginnings c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. Family and friends are encouraged to leave their condolences and memories on Betty’s Celebration Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com.