Obituary: Betty Jane Taylor Smith
Betty Jane Taylor Smith passed away peacefully at home on September 26, 2024. Betty was born on January 29, 1938, near Hargett’s Crossroads or “Taylor Town”, so-called because of her family’s long-time presence in the area. Betty loved few things more than gathering at the Taylor Reunion at Hargett’s Crossroads every September. Betty attended Mount Olive Junior College, earning a certificate in Business in 1958. After completing her education, she worked as a bookkeeper for CRV Motor Company in Richlands, and then at Wachovia Bank in Kinston. Betty moved to Fort Barnwell in Craven County after marrying her husband, James W. “Jimmy” Smith in 1965, and became a farm wife. They were married for 54 years until Jimmy’s death following a battle with cancer.
Betty grew up attending Whaley’s Chapel OFWB Church. Following her marriage, she became an active member at Lane’s Chapel UMC, her husband’s home church. She served there faithfully throughout her life and functioned as the treasurer for the women’s group for over 50 years. Betty supported Jimmy’s community involvement, including founding the Fort Barnwell Fire Department, where she filled many fundraiser plates with BBQ throughout the years. She was a charter member of the Fort Barnwell Rescue Squad where she was an EMT for 10 years.
Preceded in death by her parents, Cain Taylor and Celia Sanderson Taylor, and siblings: Wayne, Acra, Winzell, Elwood, Sidney, Fred, and J.C., Betty is survived by her sister, Ida Taylor Sutton (Glenn). She is also survived by her daughter, Jane Smith Croom (Felix) and grandson, Austin Croom (Abby).
The family would like to express their deepest thanks to Betty’s wonderful caregivers, Sarah Lane Bass, and Cindy Gates. Also, the family is very grateful to the staff of Amedisys Hospice of Greenville.
A visitation will be held at Lane’s Chapel Global Methodist Church on Saturday, September 28 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. followed by a service of remembrance at 2:00. At other times, the family will be at the home of the deceased. Flowers are welcome, or memorials may be given to Lane’s Chapel GMC, c/o Lauren Roberts, 10880 NC Hwy 55 W, Dover 28526.
