Essie Lorraine Smith was born on July 21, 1942, to Arthur and Leola Young in Savannah, Georgia, who preceded her in death. Betty, as she was affectionately known, was the fourth of eight children. She was preceded in death by her sister Pearl, and her brothers Jasper (Jay) and Robert (Bo).

She was baptized at an early age at Bryant Baptist Church. Betty was educated in the City of Philadelphia and was a proud graduate of Bok High School. She would often recite the school's saying, "Go to Bok and Be OK."

After graduating, she married William Smith (Curry), who also preceded her in death. Together, they raised four children: George (Tank), Sheila, William (Boo), and Stacey (Chee).

Betty was employed at the Carriage Stop Drapery Factory, where she worked for many years alongside her sister Barbara and her friend Louise Cooper, until the factory closed. However, her true calling was working with children. She became a residential advisor at Girard College, where she served as a parent away from home. She nurtured young minds and helped shape them into incredible individuals. To this day, many of her students remember her and speak of her with love.

Betty was very artistic and could be described as a master decorator. She loved to paint, whether it was on canvas or walls. She especially enjoyed decorating for the holidays, particularly Christmas. She would paint her mother's fireplace, making it look beautiful and elegant.

She made the best pancakes in the world, and the children always said she had the best and newest snacks. All the children in the family loved Aunt Betty, often saying she made them feel special and loved. She enjoyed oldies music and loved to "bop." Some of her favorite artists were Billy Ocean, Jackie Wilson, and Sam Cooke, and her absolute favorite song was "A Change Is Gonna Come."

Her siblings shared that she would always help them with school projects and homework. When they came home for lunch, she would have a hot meal waiting. She was funny, lighthearted, and full of joy. Anyone who knew her knew she loved bingo, so much so that she earned the nickname "Bingo Betty."

Her best friend was her sister Barbara; they were born two years and two days apart. She shared a special bond with Stacey, Corey, and Nipsey (her beloved cat), with whom she lived later in life.

Betty was devoted to her family and friends. She was lovingly called "Mommy" by her grandchildren, who adored her deeply. She leaves behind loved ones to cherish her memory and legacy: her sons George and William; her daughters Sheila and Stacey; her daughter-in-law Clevanna; her brothers Leonard and Glenn; her sisters Barbara and Leola; ten grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.