Betty Lou Smith

Betty Lou Smith, 82, of Lancaster, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Betty was full of life—hardworking, sentimental, and fiercely devoted to the people she loved. She was known for her sense of humor, her willingness to listen, and her ability to make others feel seen and remembered. She never missed a chance to laugh, reminisce, or bring a little joy to someone else’s day.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, Betty was the daughter of Ike and Frances Copas (Wolfe). She graduated from Westerville High School and earned her teaching degree from Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio. She also spent a summer in Eastern Kentucky pursuing graduate coursework. Betty began her career as a physical education teacher at Big Walnut High School in Sunbury. She later worked at the Auto Auction in Grove City for 21 years and finished her career as an Administrative Assistant in the hospice division of National Church Residences, where she cared deeply about the dignity and comfort of others in their final season of life.

Betty raised two sons, Camron and Justin, and nothing mattered more to her than family—despite all of life’s ups and downs. She worked hard, but she also made space for fun, laughter, and relationships. She stayed in touch with people over the years, always thinking of others and remembering the important things. She had a deeply sentimental heart—visiting cemeteries with flowers and stories, and cherishing the memory of her parents and younger sister, Linda Herman, whom she loved deeply and missed often.

Though she believed in God throughout her life, Betty made a personal decision to place her faith and trust in Jesus on June 28, 2024. She often carried prayers, Scriptures, and notes in her Bible that reflected the peace and hope she found during her later years.

Betty is survived by her sons, Camron Smith (Tina) and Justin Smith; her grandchildren Austin Smith (Rhylee), Grant Smith, and Gabriella Smith; and many extended family and friends who were drawn to her warmth and loyalty. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ike and Frances Copas, and her sister Linda Herman.

A gathering to celebrate Betty’s life will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home (3393 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123) on Friday, July 25. Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m., with a memorial service at 6:30 p.m.

Among the notes in her Bible was this New Year’s motto, which now serves as a gentle reminder of how she faced each day:

“Take life day by day. Be grateful for the little things. Don’t stress over what you can’t control.”