Elizabeth M. Smith November 23, 1925 - October 10, 2011

Elizabeth M. Smith of Sisters, known to family and friends as Betty, passed away on October 10 at the age of 85.

Born on November 23, 1925, Betty was one of four girls born to Kenneth and Mary Buckland of Sunnydell, Idaho. During World War II, Betty began correspondence with a local soldier, Dyle Smith, whom she married when he returned to Idaho in October of 1945.

Betty and Dyle had five children and spent much of their early marriage in Washington, where Betty was a gentle and loving homemaker. She ran a small daycare out of her home for a bit and has always been known for her kindness and generosity (and her brownies and cookies!).

Betty began working as a nurse's aid while her children were finishing high school, and continued her love of nursing when Betty and Dyle moved to Vancouver, Washington. Betty worked at the Veteran's Hospital in Vancouver (and later Portland) for over 10 years and was working toward her RN degree when Betty and her husband decided to retire and build a home outside of Sisters almost 30 years ago. Betty and Dyle were married for 55 years, until Dyle's passing in 2001.

Betty loved attending the weekly senior luncheons in Sisters and adored baking treats for family and friends. She was a doting grandmother and great-grandmother and will be missed by many.

Betty is survived by her son, Shelley Smith of Elbe, Washington; daughter, Betty Jo Summers of Sisters; five grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She is pre-deceased by her husband, Dyle Smith; daughter, Connie; son, John; daughter, Jennie; and sisters Joyce, Emma Lou and Barbara.

A celebration of life was held at Sisters Community Church on October 15.

Memorial contributions may be made in Betty's name to Central Oregon Veterans Outreach, Inc., P.O. Box 8523, Bend, OR 97708.