Bette M. Smith

Bette M. Smith, 76, of Galesburg, IL died at 1:15 p.m. Thursday, January 14, 2016.   She was born March 28, 1939 in Galesburg to John “Jack” and Pauline (Riley) McGahey. She married Raymond L. “Butch” Smith on May 8, 1956, in Galesburg. Surviving are three sons, James Smith (Debbie) of Galesburg, Kenneth Smith (Tresa) of Mackinaw, and John Smith of Galesburg; ten grandchildren, David Smith, Kari Cox (Randy), Frank Smith, Katie Smith, Jimmy Smith (Kelsey) all of Galesburg, Tegan Fickes (James) of Decatur, Kendi Smith (Josh) of Mackinaw, Jeffrey Smith, Bobby Smith (Melissa), and Michael Smith; one brother, Jay “Sonny” McGahey of Galesburg, two sisters, Patsy Mitchell and Mary (Bill) Galloway, all of Galesburg; two brothers-in-law Earl (Skip) Smith and Tim Smith both of Galesburg; one sister-in-law Kay Stake of Galesburg and several great-grandchildren.   She was preceded in death by her parents; two daughters, Henrietta Vieretta and Raymie Sue; five sisters, Shirley Edwards, Birdie Lietsch, Doris Ray, Clarcey Sue White all of Galesburg, and Isabel Gibbs of Connecticut; two brothers John “Whoopie” McGahey and Freddie McGahey both of Galesburg and one grandson, Logan John Smith of Galesburg.   Bette was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister who loved her family above all else.   Cremation rites will be accorded. Per her request, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to the Knox County Humane Society.