Bessie Smith

Bessie Mertle Smith, 85, of Advent passed away January 25, 2026 at Mountain View Care Center in Ripley.

Bessie was born February 12, 1940 at Advent, a daughter of the late Joseph P. and Vernie Chapman Smith. In addition to her parents Bessie was preceded in death by siblings Carl and Dennis Smith and a sisters, Maldine, Dessie and Ella Smith.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Thursday, February 5th at Waybright Funeral Home with Pastor David Spencer officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the Smith Family Cemetery at a later date. Online memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com