Betty Jeanne Holley
March 2, 1928 – November 30, 2023
Beatty Jeanne (Smith) Holley of Tavares, Florida passed away on Thursday November 30, 2023, at the age of 95.
She was born in Mobile, Alabama to her parents William and Gussie Smith on March 2, 1928. On June 6, 1948, she married the love of her life William “Bill” Irving Holley. They then moved from Tampa and had all 4 kids to Orlando in 1968. They built Holley Garden Apartments on Orange Avenue in Orlando Florida in anticipation of Disney World opening. It was a great investment.10 years later, they sold the apartments and retired when Betty was 50 and William was 52. They learned to scuba dive and snow ski and added those to their many hobbies and activities. They belonged to the Moose Lodge, The Elk Lodge, Cotillion, Orlando Ski Club and many bridge clubs. They were never without something to do with all their friends, but they always put the kids and grandchildren first, whenever there was an opportunity. They were very generous with their money and their possessions. Sharing their home. motorhome and/or their boat anytime.
Betty was the driving force in the family. She radiated warmth and love to everyone she met. She had too many friends to name them all, but her best friend forever was Eileen Touchton. She loved fiercely, laughed loudly, danced beautifully, and lived largely. The world was a better place because she was in it. She will be missed!
Betty is predeceased by her husband William Irving Holley; parents William and Gussie Smith; in-laws Irving and Gertie Holley; brothers William Hardie Smith III, and Michael Smith.
Betty is survived by her children Kenneth Wayne (Linda Carter) Holley, Wendi Gayle (Steven Michael) Kern, Tamara Lynn (Terry Dale) Jacobson, Adona Jeanne (Michael Shane) Payne; brother David (Francis) Holley; sister-in-law Patricia Smith; grandchildren Matthew, Sean, Jason, Chelsea, Zack, Adam; great grandchildren Savannah, Gabbie, Lee, Hailey, Micah, Layla, Celina, Arthur, Eleanor, William, Theodore. Remy, Kora, and Reese
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared on the tribute wall.
