American Legion Post 68 Ladies Auxiliary President Tracy Ann Woodbury said a few weeks ago that Betty Smith “was a name that became synonymous” with both the group and its charitable contributions to the community.
The group came together April 7 at the Manning American Legion Hut on Sunset Drive to name its Palmetto Girls State Fund in her honor.
“She was instrumental in Palmetto Girls State here in Manning, and we’ve gathered here to acknowledge her hard work and accomplishments,” Woodbury said during a ceremony where the auxiliary celebrated Smith and celebrated its own founding 75 years ago.
Smith moved to Manning when she was 9. A graduate of Manning High School, she pursued a teaching degree at Limestone College and then a master’s degree from the University of South Carolina.
Returning to Manning, Smith taught English at Manning High School for decades.
“Then, she started the beginning of her retirement and slowing down by switching careers to guidance counselor,” said daughter Lane Smith Kelley. “This slowing down turned into 10-15 years as a counselor. Her love for young people is evident by her devotion.”
Smith was first married to Ed Dinkins, who died in 1965. The couple had two sons, Ed and Claude Dinkins. She married George Smith in 1967, and raised his two daughters, Margaret Smith Geddings and Kelley, as her own.
“Her children’s affection for their mother is evident when you speak to them about her,” Woodbury said.
Woodbury noted Smith was devoted to her community, and showed this devotion through volunteering.
“She was very involved at her church, First Baptist of Manning, and was active in the Daughters of the American Revolution and Delta Kappa Gamma, which was her teachers’ honor society,” Woodbury said. “And, of course, she was a pillar in the American Legion Auxiliary.”
Smith served as unit president for 12 years, Woodbury said.
“However, she was probably most known for her work with Palmetto Girls State,” Woodbury noted. “She loved Girls State. Her daughter, Lane, remembers her mother driving out to go to the Girls State Tea to be with the girls.”
Smith died Thursday, July 23, 2009, in Beaufort.
“We are only sorry that she cannot be here to receive this honor herself,” Woodbury said. “Ms. Betty’s passing left an imprint that cannot be denied."
