Betty Jane Smith, age 97, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday morning, June 4, 2025, at Cisne Rehabilitation & Health Care Center.

      She was born October 10, 1927, in Evergreen Park, the daughter of William and Margaret (DeCourcey) Brown.  She was united in marriage to James Hayden Smith on March 26, 1983, and together they shared 33 wedding anniversaries until his passing on December 13, 2016.

      Betty was a woman with no fear of hard work, having worked as a beautician, waitress, and homemaker.  She had an “itchy foot” and loved to travel, making many lifelong friends along the way.  In her younger years she enjoyed cooking and was best known for her chicken and dumplings.  She loved to dance and was particularly fond of country music and polkas.

      She is survived by 5 sons: William Lee (Lynda) Campbell of West Sacramento, California, David Austin (Carol) Campbell of West Sacramento, California, James Allen (Karen) Campbell of California, Edward Walter Meyer II, and Roger Anton (Bobbi) Meyer of Florence, Alabama; 4 grandchildren: Shaun Campbell and Andrew (Bopha) Campbell, both of California, Brittini (Derek) Hintz of Alabama, Jessica (Zach) Dawkins of Kentucky; 4 great-grandchildren: Eli, Esmee, and Indee Hintz of Alabama, and Merle Dawkins of Kentucky; sisters: Florence Hansen of Mountain Home, Arkansas, and Loretta (Paul) Green of Louisville, Kentucky.

      She was preceded in passing by her parents; husband; and a son: Paul R. Meyer.

      A graveside memorial ceremony will be held beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Grayville with her son, Deacon David Campbell officiating.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to the Flora Volunteer Fire Department, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com