A native of Greenville SC, she resided in Atlanta most of her life. Bettye was born June 17, 1933 to Lewis and Nettie Ruth Holland Riddle.
After graduating Saint Albans High School in Piedmont, South Carolina, Bettye's adventurous spirit led her to join Eastern Airlines as a flight attendent. She received her wings after attending a five week school in Miami Springs, Florida in July 1955. She recieved many letters of appreciation for her service, kindness, graciousness and love of her job. During her tenure with the airlines she once walked in the New York City Easter Parade, proudly representing Atlanta in introducing the stunning new uniforms to be worn by the flight attendents and ticket agents. She was a member of Silverliners International which was very dear to her. She always enjoyed attending the Silverliners conventions where she looked forward to seeing old friends and making new friends.
Bettye's life long joys were spending time with her family, traveling, painting, art classes, playing bridge and playing golf. She was a member of the Summer Beach Golf Club in Amelia Island, Florida and the Burlingame Golf Club in Sapphire, North Carolina, both of which she and Buddy were seasonal residents.
Bettye was a faithful servant to her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, instilling in her children the strong faith that she lived by. She was a member of the Mount Paran Church in Atlanta for many years.
Her husband of 51 years, Talbert E. (Buddy) Smith Jr., predeceased her April 19, 2010. She is survived by her children, Spencer (Karine) Smith Knoxville, Tennessee, Stacy (Terry) Martin, Georgia, Sharon (Dr. Jeff) Albert, Canton, Georgia. Grandchildren, Connor Smith, CJ Winter, Clint Winter, Ethan Albert. Brother, Michael (Karen) Riddle Greenville, South Carolina and several nieces and nephews.
Serving as pallbearers will be, Spencer Smith, Stacy Smith, CJ Winter and Clint Winter.
Arrangements have been intrusted to H.M. Patterson & Son Funeral Home.
