Betty Howell

It is with great sadness and sorrow that we announce the sudden and unexpected death of Betty Jean Howell.

She was the daughter of the late Rev. Luben and Katherine Kutuchief. Betty graduated from Central High School and the University of Akron. She was a teacher at Weaver School for 10 years after which she was the co-owner of House of Plants Florist, where she worked until she retired.

After retirement, she volunteered for Tuesday Musical, the Akron Symphony's Portage Lakes House Tour, and the Point Comfort Association Board of Trustees.

She leaves behind her loving and devoted husband of 34 years, Michael Smith, and her stepdaughters Jennifer (Keith) Dershem and Amanda Smith. She also leaves behind her brothers John Kutuchief (Polly Reiheld) and Richard (Becky) Kutuchief. She was a loving Nonna to Michael and Annie Dershem and Micaiah Johnson.

She was a loving aunt to Brandi (Abe) Sanabria, Brett (Missy) Kutuchief, Britny (Jon Work) Kutuchief, Kyle (Getta) and Carson Kutuchief. Betty cherished her role as a Great Aunt to Julianna and Madilyn Sanabria and Kane Kutuchief. She also leaves behind her precious kitties, Teddy and Gracie.

She had a true zest for life and left an indelible mark on all that she touched. We miss her already dearly. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family asks that any charitable donations be made to Tuesday Musical.