Brenda Betenson Smith

We lost our wife, mom, grandma, sister, aunt, teacher, and friend. Brenda returned to heaven on June 24th. She bravely fought multiple myeloma for the last two years. We are heartbroken by her passing and find comfort in knowing that she is with her son, William, along with her parents.

Born in Kanab, Utah, on June 12, 1961, to Wade and Joanna Betenson. Brenda spent her childhood in Fillmore and Bountiful. She was proud to be a part of the first graduating class of Woods Cross High. She attended Utah State University before meeting and marrying her husband Howard Dean (HD) Smith on November 13, 1981. She graduated with a degree in Elementary Education from the University of Utah in 1984. Howard and Brenda raised their 6 beloved children in Kaysville.

Brenda was a lifelong teacher. Her first student was her dad, who used to play school with her as a child. She ensured her teaching certification was always current. Brenda taught at Columbia, Sand Springs, and Creekside Elementary. 4th grade was her favorite to teach with Utah history and the rock cycle. It broke her heart when she had to resign from teaching due to her cancer diagnosis.

Brenda maintained her sense of humor even during challenging times. While fighting cancer, she sustained her love of learning, gardening, and music. Brenda was a wonderful piano player and teacher. She was a voracious reader.

Brenda was inclusive; she helped everyone feel welcomed and loved. She always reminded her children and grandchildren to be kind. She will be sorely missed. Brenda is survived by her sweetheart of 40 years, her children: Michelle, Becca, Josh (Hyemin), Alicia (Rebecca), and Amy, her grandchildren Sullivan Mae, Wyatt Seojun, Leo Seowon and Bodhi William, her brothers Greg (Juliann) and Bill (Liz) Betenson, sister Nancy Nina (Nathan) Long, and mother-in-law LuDean Smith. Survived as well by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son William, her parents, and her father-in-law, Bill Smith.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 1st at 11 am at the Kaysville Tabernacle (198 W Center Street). A viewing will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 until 10:30 am, and Thursday, June 30th from 6-8 pm.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Huntsman Cancer Institute, Dr. K, and especially Grace Bissel.

Interment at Kaysville Cemetery.