On Friday, February 12, 2021, Betty Lou Starnes Smith, 83, of Harrisburg, North Carolina passed away peacefully at home after a long valiant battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Mrs. Smith was born in Cabarrus County, May 14, 1937 to the late Fred and Ida Starnes.  She was preceded in death by, five sisters; two brothers; and last July, by her beloved husband of 58 years, Ralph Allen Smith.

Mrs. Smith was raised on a working family farm on Flowes Store Road, along with her many cousins and siblings. She also worked at a family owned Grocery store in Concord. She attended Bethel School in Mildland. Mrs. Smith worked in the hosiery industry until retirement. In October, 1962, she married the love of her life Ralph, and together they created a beautiful family.  She greatly enjoyed her daughters, grandchildren and great-grand children, forming a special bond with her oldest grandson, Trent.  She loved cooking and entertaining family and friends. One of her true passions was reading, she was rarely without a book-in hand.  Mrs. Smith was always ready for adventure and travels.  She especially enjoyed the beautiful North Carolina coast and mountains during the long warm days of summer.  This was her favorite time of year.  A special thanks to her best girlfriends Sherry Russ and Jean Simpson for creating such fun times!  These ladies were unstoppable until Alzheimer's disease, invaded her life.  Mrs. Smith was a kind and gentle soul, who never forgot her love for Jesus, and spoke often of going to her heavenly home.  

Mrs. Smith is survived by her loving daughters, Teresa Cochran (James), of Fort Lawn, S.C. and Rhonda Motley (Timothy) of Harrisburg, N.C., grandchildren, Trent Smith (Kimberly), Gregory Hartsock, and Christian Cochran, five great-grandchildren, sisters, Ruth Easley and Frances Shue, of Concord, and brother Don Starnes, of Mt. Pleasant.

Memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County or the Alzheimer's Association.

A special thanks to her beloved son-in-law Mr. Timothy Motley, and daughters for giving so selflessly to make sure their Mother felt safe, comfortable, and loved during her final days.  The family would also like to thank Cabarrus Hospice for their support and care. There will be a memorial at a later date due to COVID-19 to celebrate her life.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the Smith Family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com