Betty Smythe-Ladd

Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Smythe-Ladd, beloved lifelong resident of Muskogee, Oklahoma, met her Savior on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the age of 89. Born November 7, 1936, to Robert and Mary (Samples) Polk, Betty attended Muskogee public schools and graduated from Muskogee Central High School with the class of 1955. In 1957, Betty married Jimmie Dale Smythe, and together they raised their family and made cherished memories until Jimmie's passing in 2016. In 2017, Betty found love again with Dr. George H. Ladd, and she often expressed how blessed she felt to have been married to two of the greatest men she had ever known. Betty’s working career began at OG&E as a cashier. Her path then led her to the banking industry, where she dedicated 18 years to First National Bank, followed by positions at American Bank, Citizen’s Bank, and Bank of Oklahoma. Alongside her professional pursuits, Betty was co-owner of Unique Cleaners for 15 years, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to her community. Her love for horses, especially Arabians, brought her much joy throughout her life. Above all, family was most important to Betty, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She attended First Christian Church for many years and later found a spiritual home at First Baptist Church in Muskogee. Betty’s warmth, dedication, and faith touched many lives. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Jimmie Dale; son, Shan; sister, Barbara; and brother, Robert Polk. Betty is survived by her husband, George H. Ladd; her son, Brad; grandchildren, Scott (Alyssa), Spencer (Samantha), and Sara (Mohamed); great-grandchildren, Eloise, Aria, Clarke; step children, Lyn (Mark) and Michael (Lucia); step-grandchildren, Will (Alexandra), Evan, and Sabrina; along with nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Betty’s life will be celebrated at 10AM, Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Cornerstone Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Kevin Chartney officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Muskogee with Andy Anderson, Mike Calavan, Bob Coburn, Chris Jackson, Scott Smythe, Spencer Smythe, and Mohamed Suleyman serving as pallbearers.

Betty Smythe-Ladd

November 7, 1936 - March 26, 2026