Betty Flack Smith, born January 3, 1932, passed away October 9, 2020. She is predeceased by her parents Inez Bobo Flack and Alton B. Flack, her brother Bobby Flack, her husband of 23 years, Joseph B. Smith, and her son Joseph Steven Smith. She is survived by her daughter Janet Smith Mann (Mike), her granddaughter Jennifer Mann Tarpy (Chris), and her great granddaughter Miller Kate Tarpy.
Betty was born in Hazel Green, AL and grew up in Huntsville where she attended Lincoln School and Huntsville High School. She earned a B.S. from Florence State College (University of North Alabama). While there she earned numerous honors, including election as Homecoming Queen. She later earned a Master’s Degree from Alabama A&M University and an AA Certificate from the University of Alabama.
A lifetime lover of sports, she pursued a career in physical education. She taught at Rison School, Lakewood Elementary School, Davis Hills Middle School, and Butler High School, where she was the Cheerleader Sponsor for many years. Her teaching career was followed by her appointment as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Huntsville.
Betty came to know the Lord as a young girl, worshiping and serving at Southside Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, and Jackson Way Baptist Church. Family was a top priority with her and she devoted time, energy, and love to each and every family member, especially her beloved granddaughter Jenna.
Another joy in her life was supporting the University of Alabama sports, especially football. In her position as Director of Parks and Recreation, she developed friendships with numerous coaches and staff members. Her car tag for years read simply “BAMA B”. Continuing in the love and support of children, recreation, and service to others, it is requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Nick’s Kids Foundation (https://www.nickskidsfoundation.org/donate).
A graveside service is planned at Maple Hill Cemetery on Tuesday October 13 at 1:00pm. Family and friends visitation will also be at graveside at noon.
