NORTH ANSON – Betty Lou (Bigelow) Smith, 87, of North Anson, peacefully passed away on April 11, 2026, after a courageous battle with dementia. Born on Dec. 31, 1938, in Skowhegan, she was the beloved daughter of Clyne and Alice (Foss) Bigelow.

Betty lived a life full of creativity, energy, and connection. She found joy in quilting alongside her mother, nurturing her vibrant flower gardens, immersing herself in books and puzzles, and dancing to the timeless tunes of the oldies. She delighted in sharing stories of childhood adventures with her brothers and treasured the memories of barn dances where family and friends would gather to sing and play music. Going for a ride with no intended destination was a normal part of the weekend.

You could often find her at the kitchen table with a cup of coffee and a game of solitaire, perfectly content in her quiet routine. She poured love into every meal she cooked and every dessert she baked, especially for the many family gatherings she cherished. As soon as Thanksgiving passed, her counters and tables transformed into a holiday workshop, covered with batches of her homemade and hand dipped Christmas candies. Sharing those treats brought her joy, and they became a tradition everyone looked forward to.

In her younger years, Betty embraced an active lifestyle, participating in snowshoe races, tennis, bowling leagues, and many seasons of women’s softball. Throughout her life, she worked in various roles – from the shoe shop and stick mill to waitressing and custodial work – always thriving in the company of others. Her love for animals was evident in her gentle affection, often found cuddling on the floor beside them and asking for kisses while telling them how much she loved them. Walking was one of her favorite pastimes, and her quick wit and playful humor were a hallmark of her personality.

At her core, Betty was authentically bold and fearless. She lived her life on her own terms, never afraid to speak her mind, follow her instincts, or stand firmly in who she was. Whether trying something new, sharing her honest opinions, or simply embracing each day with confidence and independence, she carried a quiet strength that inspired those around to live with humor, courage and compassion.

Betty was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Richard Smith; her brothers, Richard “Dick” LaBree and Clyne “Sam” Bigelow; and her grandchildren, Phillip Smith and Jessica (Smith) Rice.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Mikeal Smith and his wife Donna of Palm Bay, Fla., Jeffrey Smith of Laramie, Wyo., Lorelei (Smith) Williams and her husband Richard of North Anson, Heidi (Smith) Divers of Staten Island, N.Y., and Coralee (Smith) Williams and her husband Andy of North Anson. Betty’s legacy lives on through her many grandchildren, Melissa, Margaret, Ryan, Josh, Matthew, Athena, Kristina, Marcie, Hunter, and Cheyenne – and their families; as well as numerous extended family members and dear friends.

Betty will be fondly remembered for her warmth, humor, unwavering love for family, and the simple joys she embraced every day.

A huge thank-you to all the wonderful staff at the Maine Veterans Home in Augusta. What an amazing place for Mom to have spent the last two years. The kind and caring individuals there always made her feel comfortable and cared for. It’s truly special to see both employees and residents smiling together every day. Keep up the great work – you all make such a difference!

In accordance with Betty’s wishes, there will be no formal service or celebration.

Share condolences, photos, and special memories at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/betty-smith-26 .

Those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to plant a flower or donate food and blankets to a local pet shelter. And, of course, turn up the oldies and dance like no one is watching – just as Betty would have loved.