Betty was born February 5th, 1931 in Vancouver, BC and passed away March 25th, 2023 in Yakima, WA surrounded by her loving family. Born Betty-Joan Lorraine Reifel, daughter of H.F. and Edna Reifel. From her parents, she learned the art of discipline, fine manners and striving for excellence in everything she did. She attended Crofton House School with her adored sister, Barbara-Ann. Betty was most proud to be prefect of House of Stuart her grade 12 grad year. Her most fond childhood memories were spent at home in Vancouver and summering at Crescent Beach, on the family farm and cruising in the Canadian San Juans. Betty was an accomplished swimmer, winning many childhood races at the beach. At the young age of 14, she became a member of the Tyee Club of BC, catching a 33-pound salmon! In 1948, she attended the University of Washington, pledging Kappa Kappa Gamma and establishing lifelong friends. Betty met her to be husband and “best friend” of nearly 70 years, Richard Smith, whom she was forever loyal. Her true loves in life were her family and the many people she called friends. She was completely devoted to us all and influenced us with her grace, elegance, kindness, thoughtfulness, sincerity and beauty. Betty called Vancouver, Calgary, Los Angeles, Sun Valley and ultimately Yakima her home. Betty was an active member of Junior League, Florence Wight Guild and Backstage Theatre of Yakima; member of Yakima Country Club and Tennis Club. Betty was an unmatched hostess planning many successful charity and social events in her beautifully appointed home. She traveled extensively throughout her incredible life, enjoying what the world had to offer, but was most happy taking her late afternoon swim, listening to Frank Sinatra, especially if her beloved family was nearby.
Betty is survived by her husband Richard Smith, daughters Shary (Pat) Cahill, Laura (Joe) Drovetto, Pam (Patrick) Sudmeier, grandchildren Patrick Cahill, Tony Drovetto, Lorraine (Alfred) Anderson, Nick Drovetto, Laura (Dan) Kapustka, 3 great-grands, many adored nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. We all will be forever grateful for her positive impact on us. Her beautiful soul has left us an amazing legacy.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.keithandkeith.com for the Smith family.
