Stephanie Smith

Stephanie Smith, Age 66 of Bethlehem, passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at her residence with her devoted husband and loving family by her side after a lengthy battle with cancer. Born on Sunday, April 19, 1959, she was the daughter of Johnnie and Tym (Moody) Ricketts. A dedicated member and deacon of Berea Christian Church, she was actively involved and coordinated many activities of the church. She served as secretary and treasurer of Point Pleasant Cemetery for many years, helping take care of the cemetery. Stephanie married the love of her life on Friday, October 12, 1979, when she said “I do” to Mr. Bill Smith of Bethlehem. Together they spent their life working hard on the farm alongside each other and raising a family. Her loyalty to her husband, even extended to his sports teams, as she embraced and shared his enthusiasm for the Pittsburgh Steelers. She was the epitome of a supportive wife and never let her husband out work her. After a long day’s work, the best part of working on the Smith farm was enjoying a delicious meal she prepared for those helping. Together they raised hundreds of acres of tobacco, fed and milked many head of cattle and picked thousands of strawberries. Although she enjoyed farming and gardening, nothing compared to the joy her children and grandchildren brought her. Stephanie was a devoted mother and grandmother, supporting them in all their activities, regardless of the circumstances. Stephanie will be remembered by many for her strong faith, her kindness and the strength she exuded throughout her life.

She is survived by her husband of over 45 years, Bill Smith of Bethlehem; sons, Billy John Smith (Ashley) of Simpsonville, and Cole Smith (April) of Louisville; daughter, Heidi Janes (Adam) of Finchville; parents, Johnnie and Tym Ricketts of Campbellsburg; brothers, John Logan Ricketts of Campbellsburg, and Randy Ricketts (Debbie) of Georgetown; four grandchildren, Logan, Harrison and Eleanor Smith and Gemma Janes; and her sister-in-law, Becky Ethington of Bethlehem.

Memorial Services will be conducted at 2 PM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Beckley Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Wells, Officiating and Reverend Tammie Douglas, Assisting. Visitation will be held from 9 AM until the time of service on Saturday. Inurnment will follow at Point Pleasant Cemetery. To honor Stephanies life, memorial contributions may be made to Berea Christian Church. With Care and Professionalism, arrangements are under the direction of Beckley Funeral Home.