June 30, 1937 – September 22, 2025
Betty Jane Smith, daughter of Fred and Olga (Simonsmeier) Schwartz was born on June 30, 1937, in rural Swea City. She passed away on September 22, 2025, at the Fairmont Medical Center at the age of 88 years.
Betty graduated from Swea City High School in 1955 and attended Iowa State Teachers College. While in her thirties she enrolled at Mankato State College and earned her bachelor’s degree.
On June 21, 1959, Betty married James (Jim) Smith at the Bethany Evangelical and Reformed Church in Ledyard, Iowa. She was an elementary and Title I teacher for many years until her retirement from North Kossuth School in 1997. After retiring, she and Jim enjoyed traveling. She had fond memories of their trip to Germany to visit her father’s birthplace, trips to Alaska, and epic stateside trips with their grandchildren.
Betty was a member of the Bethany Evangelical and Reformed Church in Ledyard, Iowa. Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her capacity for love and forgiveness was an inspiration to her family and friends. She was known for her many prayers and cards of encouragement.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband Jim; children Kristi (Tony) Partington, Greg (Barb) Smith; grandchildren Katie (Tom) Brekke, Jacob (Jessica) Vrieze, Autumn (Nick) Stelter, Trana Luhmann, and CR Partington (Emily); Great-grandchildren MacKenzie Householder, Oliver and Jackson Vrieze, and Barrett Stelter. She is also survived by her brother Fred Schwartz.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, four sisters, and other extended family members.
Betty’s family suggests donations to the church or christian mission of your choice.
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