Beth Ann Smith

Beth Ann (Johnson) Smith

October 20, 1949 to September 5, 2026

Beth A Smith of Muskegon passed away September 5, 2026. She was born on October 20, 1949 in Holland Michigan to Clarence and Jane (DeFouw) Johnson. Beth graduated in 1967 from Zeeland High School and 1971 from Central Michigan University where she earned her Bachelor and Masters degrees in Education. She was a member of the Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority.

After graduation she coached and taught physical Education at Vassar Public Schools from 1971 to 1975. During that time, the girls' volleyball team never lost a 15-point game in 3 consecutive years. The varsity cheerleaders won 5 state competitions.

In 1975 she joined the staff at Muskegon Community College until her retirement in 2011. While at MCC, she was a physical education and recreation instructor. She coached volleyball, developed a recreation curriculum, redesigned the gym, fitness center, dance studio, athletic training center and added classrooms. She was voted outstanding faculty member and served as Faculty Association President.

In 1980 Beth was elected President of the Board of Directors for the Michigan Special Olympics. She also managed the University Park Golf Course. While there, she set up golf for Special Olympics Athletes and worked with MCC for cross country events. She loved all sports as well as sailing and boating. In November of 1979 she married the love of her life, Don Smith of Muskegon. They shared 16 beautiful years together until Don's death in 1995.

Beth is survived by: brother Robert (Cathy) Johnson, brother Steven (Pat) Johnson, sister-in-law Carole (Smiley) Johnson, niece Aimee (Jim) Dekker, niece Casey (Jason) Byrd, nephew Kyle (Shannon) Johnson, stepson Dean Smith, stepdaughter Kristine VanderHoek, step grandsons Zak and Carl, step niece Kari Suffel and several other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by: her beloved husband Don Smith, parents Clarence and Jane (DeFouw) Johnson, brother Charles Johnson. Beth will be greatly missed by her beloved dogs Buddy and Dally, family, friends and neighbors.

A private celebration of life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Michigan Special Olympics.