Betty Jean Smith, age 85 of Paducah, passed away on Friday, November 20, 2020, 7:10 a.m. at Baptist Health Paducah.

She was a member of Harrison Street Missionary Baptist Church where she sang in the church choir.

Betty was also one of the founder members of the longtime singing group The Golden Echoes.

She was preceded in death by her husband Benny Smith and her parents, Charles Merritt and Alvernice Champion Tolbert.

She is survived by five daughters; Debra Smith, Patricia (Roy Rouse) Smith, Rhonda (Herman) Smith, Alma Smith and Sherry Smith all of Paducah; three sons ; Gregory Smith, Ricky Smith and Guy (Melony) Smith all of Paducah; one brother, Charles Merritt of Paducah ; twelve grandchildren; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at Pettus Rowland Funeral Home with Rev. James L. Hudson officiating.  Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.

Due to the current restrictions to COVID-19, funeral services will be private.

You may light a candle or leave online condolences at pettusrowlandfh.com.