Bettie Smith Cole

She was a devoted mother, loving grandmother, and a great friend to many. She was ahead of her time in so many ways, and she worked hard to achieve her dreams. She was the first in her family history to ever graduate from college. She moved from California to Tuscaloosa, where she received her Master's degree and PhD from the University of Alabama. Her love of academia led her to be a professor at East Tennessee State University. She dedicated her Social Work and academic career to serving those in need and her love of people led her to serve her family and friends and inspire all within her reach. Until she was unable to do so physically, she loved visiting her neighbors daily. Bettie loved all animals, and the neighborhood dogs always ran straight to Bettie’s house, as they knew she kept snacks for all of her furry friends. She will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by special friend, Rusty Cain; brother, Travis (Wayne) Smith; sister, Barbara Whitaker (Lynn) and sister-in-law, Mary Justice.

She is survived by her daughter, Katherine Turner; grandson, Cole Turner; granddaughter, Alexandra Turner; extended family, Maggie Cain, (Darryl Lowry) Lisa Cain, Vicki Turnage, Paul Cain; brother, Robert (Bob) Justice; sister-in-law, Linda Smith; cousin, Carole Iten, many nieces and nephews, and many friends and neighbors, including Lexa Garrett (Terrell) and family, Eleanor Boykin, and Charlotte Patrick (Dan).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter or the Humane Society of West Alabama.

A Celebration of Life will be held at her residence on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM.