Betty Mae Smith Bennett, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, was born on October 17, 1938, in the Sedge Garden community of Kernersville, North Carolina, to the late William Gordon Smith and Lavie Lowe Smith. She peacefully entered eternal rest on September 14, 2026, at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, surrounded by the love of her family.

Betty was a woman who found joy in caring for others. She loved working with flowers and took great pride in decorating, keeping her home, and caring for children. Her loving spirit, generous heart, and willingness to help others touched many lives throughout her years.

Betty spent her life in the Kernersville and Winston-Salem areas. She was united in marriage to Joe Bennett, and together they were blessed with seven children—four sons and three daughters: Jonathan “Rodney” (Janice) Bennett, Nancy “Kitty” (Letmon) Williams, Jesse “Katnip” Bennett, Charles (Trudy) Bennett, David “Boo Boo” (Telisa) Bennett, Patricia " Trix" (Lee) Simmons, and Harold Bennett.

She was preceded in death by her parents; several siblings, including William Jr., Donald “Dock” Smith, Ronnie “Peanut” Smith, and John Dale Smith; and her beloved daughter, Nancy “Kitty” Williams.

Betty leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Esther Ortega, of California; brothers Terry (Phyllis) Smith, of Pfafftown, North Carolina, and Philip Wayne (Angela) Smith, of Cary, North Carolina; along with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and many friends who loved her dearly.

Betty was a faithful member of Providence Baptist Church in Kernersville, where she served as a member of the Missionary Circle, Usher Board, and Senior Choir. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was surrounded by love and prayer during her final transition.

Betty also held a special place in her heart for the children she helped raise and nurture, including John Jermaine Smith, “R.B.” Rogers, and Kentae Taylor. She loved them dearly, and the impact she made on their lives will forever remain a cherished part of her legacy.

Mrs. Bennett will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved her. Her laughter, love, kindness, and the countless memories she created with her family will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Please continue to keep her son David and his wife, Telisa, in your prayers as they adjust to life without her loving presence in their home—laughing at all of Boo Boo's jokes.

Forever in Our Hearts

Betty Mae Smith Bennett

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Matthew 25:23

Her love will remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

The Bennett Family

Thank you for your prayers, love, and support during this time of bereavement.

Douthit Funeral Services

Our Family Serving Your Family Since 2000