Betty Marie Smith's Obituary
SMITH, BETTY MARIE DRAPER Born April 29, 1926, in Enid, OK, passed away in Dallas on April 1, 2012. Betty moved with her family to Dallas in 1935 and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. While a senior in high school, she was also a member of one of the first ballet groups in Dallas, the George Frierson Ballet. She attended Hockaday Junior College. In 1943, she married high school sweetheart, H. Bill Smith, a private in the U.S Marine Corps. Upon Bill’s return from the Korean War, the family settled in Dallas. Betty’s life revolved around their two daughters. She was active in the Girl Scouts as a Troop Leader and Cookie Mom, Dallas Metropolitan Ballet Co., East Dallas YMCA, high school drill team supporter, and numerous church activities. After her daughters graduated from high school, Betty’s many talents flourished and she became accomplished in such things as weaving, knitting, crocheting, silk screen, clothing designs, Japanese flower design, stained glass, jewelry making and doll making. Joining various doll clubs, bead societies, and wearable art groups, she quickly made life-long friends and was always eager to try any new art form. Her varied creations are now cherished by many. In her later years, her attention focused on her two granddaughters, sharing with them not only her love of art, but also working side by side with them to pass on her many skills. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Georgia Draper and O.C. Draper. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Bill Smith; her daughters Diane Michaels and Teena and son-in-law Jimmy Anderson; granddaughters Patricia and husband, David Anderson, Sarah Anderson and niece, Karen Smith. The family wishes to thank the caring staff of Presbyterian Village North and Faith Hospice for their care. Should you wish to honor Betty’s memory, a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 would be appreciated by the family.
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