Bettye Ann Boyd Smith, 77, of Mount Olive, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at her home on April 26, 2025. Born on August 4, 1947, in McComb, Mississippi, to Mattie and Hewitt Boyd, Bettye lived a life rooted in faith, love, and devotion.
A cherished member of Corinth Baptist Church, her deep faith was the cornerstone of her life. Bettye had a passion for retail fashion sales, where her keen sense of style and warm demeanor delighted customers and colleagues. She found joy in nurturing her yard, creating a beautiful sanctuary, and lavishing love on her family and many beloved pets, who were her constant companions. Known for her kind heart and generous spirit, Bettye’s warmth left a lasting impact on her community and those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Sheree Boyd Rand; her parents, Mattie and Hewitt Boyd; and her sister, Peggy Boyd.
Bettye is survived by her devoted husband, James T. Smith; her sister, Anna Boyd Simmons and her husband, Bernie Simmons; her brothers, Billy Boyd and David Boyd; her daughter, Jacquelyn S. Boyd Bowman, and her husband, John Bowman; her son, James Ray Boyd Jr. and his wife, Sheila; stepdaughters Heather Smith Pastorek and Tammie Smith; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A memorial service to celebrate Bettye’s life will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Corinth Baptist Church in Magee, MS, at 11:00 am. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Bro. Jay Wesbrooks is officiating the service.