Betty Knight

Betty Davis Knight, beloved Mom and Mimi, passed away on April 15, 2025. Betty was born July 9, 1952, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, to Beatrice Queen Davis and Raymond Davis.

A proud Monkey Run girl, Betty began her education in the one-room schoolhouse where her pet crow, Joe, would often wait on the front steps for her and her older brother. She later finished her education in Cotter, graduating in 1970, where she was named homecoming queen and wittiest in her class.

Betty had a gift for many things—among them, a beautiful cursive handwriting that her grandchildren often needed help deciphering but always treasured. Her beans and cornbread were legendary, and she didn’t need a recipe, just a well-worn pot and a cast iron skillet. She was also a talented seamstress who lovingly sewed clothing, toys, and other handmade treasures for her children and grandchildren. She could whip up dresses, pajamas and Halloween costumes with the kind of care only a mom (and later a Mimi) could provide. She passed down her love of crafting to her daughter and several of her granddaughters.

She had a wonderful singing voice and from childhood into adulthood, Betty and her brother would often sing together, entertaining family and friends, but mostly themselves. The family’s musical talent was passed on to each of her three children in different ways. Her grandchildren will remember the songs she sang with them as they grew up, sometimes silly but always from the heart.

She had a sharp sense of humor and quick wit and was simply a joy to be around. When her kids were little, she had a knack for turning everyday chores into fun, always with the promise of a trip to the Cotter Spring as a reward when the work was done. As her children got older, she continued to bring joy and laughter into their lives—especially through her annual “As Seen On TV” Christmas celebration that was quirky and over the top and had to be experienced to be believed.

Betty was the kind of mom you could be yourself around, no judgment, no expectations, just love. Her heart was always open to her kids, their friends, and later her grandchildren and their friends. Everyone was welcome. She kept in touch with loved ones through handwritten cards and sweet messages on Facebook, always offering words of encouragement and positivity. She was also a well-loved mother-in-law, easy to be around, supportive, and full of kindness.

Her deep affection for animals began early with Joe the crow and continued with every stray cat, possum, or backyard bird that crossed her path. She had a soft spot for every creature.

In her later years, Betty found great joy in giving back. She volunteered with her church and spent time serving through the Samaritan’s Purse organization, always finding ways to care for others.

On August 8, 2017, Betty married Allen Knight after 15 very happy years together. They spent their free time cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, camping, and working side by side around their home.

Betty’s love and laughter will live on. She will be missed dearly and remembered always.

Betty is survived by her husband, Allen, her three children, Matty Smith Ross (Ashley) of Little Rock, Andy Smith (Patsy) of Flippin, and Ben Smith (Wendy) of Buford. Nine grandchildren, Corissa, Davis, Amelia, and Lila Jane Ross, Nicole Senn (Morgen), Jacob and Luke Smith, and Garrett and Bennett Smith. And three great-grandchildren Riley, Scarlet, and Emery Senn. She is also survived by a brother, Ray Dean Davis, of Monkey Run. Betty is preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of her life will be held on May 18 from 2:00-4:00 pm at the Gassville Baptist Fellowship Hall for any who wish to visit with the family. A private burial service will follow at the Pilgrim’s Rest Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.