Betty J. Smith

81 year old, Betty J. Smith, of Valparaiso, passed away October 23, 2025 at her home.

On June 2, 1944, Betty was born to Musker and Lillie (Wilson) Ford, in Hammond, Indiana. Betty married the love of her life, James Smith on September 15, 1962, in Black Oak, Indiana. She loved to crochet, and cook. She enjoyed taking care of her family.

Betty is survived by her husband: James, children: James ‘Jr’ (Deanne) Smith, Lilly ‘Sis’ (Shawn) White, Shirley (Mark) Schaefer, Michael (Nika Bart) Smith, 9 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren, sister: Glenna Luna, and brother-in-law: Darrel Miles.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, siblings: Judy Miles, Kenny Ford, Etta Byrom, Wanda Vanderheof, Nick Ford, Bev McFall, Andy Ford, Gladys Grimmer, J D Ford, Omer Ford, and Hazel Grimmer.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 9:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the First Methodist Church, 2637 McCool Rd, Portage, IN 46368. Services for Betty, will take place on Tuesday, at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Ron Richmond officiating. Interment will follow at Calumet Park Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.