Beatrice Sue Smith, 79, of Old Fort, departed this life peacefully on February 3, 2026, at her residence.

She was born on September 4, 1946, to the late Ozzle Reed and Martha Mae Rymer Phillips Browder in Chatsworth, Georgia.

Beatrice wasn't just the heart of the family; she was its soul.  She had a warmth that could light up any room and a kindness that touched everyone she met, she made everyone feel loved.  To say Beatrice will be missed is an understatement.  Her absence will leave a space that can never be filled, but the family finds comfort in knowing that her spirit lives in their lives forever.

In addition to her parents, Ozzle Reed and Martha Mae Rymer Phillips Browder, she was preceded in death by one son, Steven Phillip Smith; brother-in-law, Ray Shannon.

Left to cherish the many memories include her beloved children, Shelia D. Green, and Cassandra Annetter Stone; son, Christopher Reed Smith; grandchildren, Brandon Green (Jade Carr), Storm Green, Aeris Golden, Haden Kirkland, Adalynn Smith, Lilyanah Smith, Dawnavinn Stone, and Inessa Smith; great grandchild, Karter Green; siblings, Jimmy (Joyce) Phillips, and Diane Shannon.  Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, in the chapel of Higgins Funeral Home of Benton, with Pastor David Disney officiating.  Interment will follow at Boanerges Baptist Church Cemetery, with Brandon Green, Chris Smith, Haden Kirkland, Ricky Hannah, Justin Reynolds, and Lynn Phillips serving as pallbearers.

Her family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, prior to the service at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFunerals.com.

Higgins Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of arrangements.