Betty Stuteville Smith

Betty Stuteville Smith, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend, departed this life on May 20, 2024 at the age of 93. She joined her long-time love, Charles Ladd Smith, in heaven. Her final weeks were spent in the loving care of her family and the staff at Parkview Rehabilitation Center in Big Spring. Just as in life, Betty’s last days were a reflection of her love for family and kindness to everyone she encountered.

Born September 28, 1930 in Wink, Texas, Betty Jo Stuteville was the fourth child of Dick and Alma Stuteville. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings Dixie Conroe, Rees Stuteville, and Doris Brown Barnard.

Betty graduated from Big Spring High School in 1948. Ladd and Betty were married in Big Spring at First Methodist Church on July 30, 1949. They spent 69 years together prior to his death in 2018.

She is survived by her children Celia Milner of Encinitas, CA, Lynn Smith of Haiku HI, and David Smith (Terri-Lin) of Highland Village TX. Grandchildren include Starr Skinner (Katie) and Tiffany Messerli (Ian). Cooper and Lucy Skinner and Vaughn Messerli also survive their great grandmother. Additionally, Betty is survived by her nieces and nephews: Rees Stuteville, Brad Stuteville, Dixie Schultze, Glena Muncrief, Blake Brown, and Bob Smith.

Betty and Ladd were members of First United Methodist Church in Big Spring for many years and of Preston Hollow Methodist Church in Dallas. They served as leaders of the Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF) while in Dallas. Each of them served their churches in many roles. Betty was an accomplished bridge player, most recently at Big Spring Country Club. Throughout her life, she corresponded regularly with family members and friends.

Professionally, Betty worked at SMU for 17 years as the Administrative Assistant to the Director of Libraries. Throughout her life, Betty served others through meals for church functions, grieving families, and celebrations. Following her family’s tradition of superb cooking and hostessing, Betty was known for her beautiful meals, excellent desserts, and welcoming table where there was always room for one more. Her circle of influence and love is never-ending and will be remembered by everyone she touched. Her “family” extends to many dear friends, too many to mention.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Rosewood Chapel, 906 S Gregg Street, Big Spring, TX.

In her memory, contributions may be sent to the HL Batton Memorial Endowment at Howard College in Big Spring or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com

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