Betty Wertheimer Smith

This week I learned of the death of Betty Tevis Smith.

I have known Betty for 45 years. I first met her at Jesse Jones High School in Houston, Texas. She was my Homeroom and Physical Education Teacher. Betty and I developed a special bond over those four years at Jones. She was fun, an encourager, and a great teacher. Betty asked me to be her class assistant. I had always loved sports and the out doors, but no one had ever encouraged me to become a recreational leader. Later I served as recreational director for many summer camps in Texas, Oregon, and Washington.

I attended Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas and received a BS in Physical Education, Health, and Biology. Betty and I continued to stay in contact through Christmas cards and calls. I taught PE and Biology for 25 years and at my retirement ceremony Betty made the effort to attend.

I am now 65 years old and continue to walk in her paths. I now teach Health and Wellness conferences for univerities, churches, and retreats.

Thanks, Betty, for the encouragement and support through the years. You will truly be missed.

Cindy (Estopinal) Spurger

I just heard about Mrs. Tevis'(what we called her) death by a good high school friend Cindy Estopinal Spurger. We loved our PE teacher so very much and we all were thrilled when she came back to our High School Reunions - Jesse H. Jones HS in Houston,TX. She will such a wonderful influence to all of us "girls" during our high school years. She will be msised.
Judy Ross McNeely
JHJ Class of '66

I just heard of your loss, Mr. Smith, and I am so truly sorry. Betty was a very special person and I loved visiting with her whenever I came over. Please accept my sincere condolences and sympathy at her passing. She was a remarkable lady and a joy to know.

Today was Mother's Day and I thought about you all day. I wish I had one more hug and one more chance to tell you how much I love you and what a wonderful woman I thought you were. Rest in peace Mama. I love you.

I had the pleasure of meeting Betty when I was working in home health. We also became good friends. I will treasure the times we had together. My thoughts are with Bob and their precious "Shultz" and also with the rest of the family. I am so sorry.

Bob, I was surprised to read this, today. I am so sorry for your loss. I think of Betty every year when I set up my Christmas village houses. You both were very special to me!

It has been a pleasure knowing Ms. Betty these last 5 years. I will miss giving her a massage once a month. She was a real hoot, even during the difficult times. Please know that I send Bob and Cindy and the rest of the family my peaceful wishes. You let me know If I can be of any help to you through this process.

I am going to miss our long phone calls so much! You were a remarkable lady, Betty, determined to "keep your chin up" and live life to the fullest even through your many tribulations. I was always inspired by that quality in you.

I know Mary and that contagious laugh were waiting with a grandiose reception for you and I imagine her running through her silly "Archibald's Adventures" repertoire to make YOU laugh--a joyful reunion, indeed.

Please know, Bob, Cindy, Kathy, Tom and of course Jeremy and Josh that I'm sending prayers for your entire family for healing and my strong sympathy for this loss. God bless you all.

Bob,

So sorry for your loss.