bettie eugenia (grove) smitherman
Bettie Eugenia "Gina" (Grove) Smitherman, 80, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2024, in Lebanon, IN, at Witham Hospital. She was born on May 1, 1943 in Sullivan, IN to the late Rev. Melvin E. Grove and Betty (Cox) Grove.
Gina worked for Monon Railroad and in the Indiana State House. She was the administrator of Mr. J's Hair Academy in Gary, Crown Point, and Indianapolis, IN. Gina loved her children and grandchildren fiercely; she loved a good bowl of chili and gospel music. Gina's stories were legendary, and all who knew her will miss her laughter and sense of humor.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Kevin Block of Alexandria, KY, Susan Keaton of Frankfort, IN, and Rev. Travis J. Johnson (Jody) of Findlay, OH; six grandchildren, Michael Block, Arie Block, Brian Keaton Jr. (Tiffany), Shaylee Stewart (Corey), Alyssa Long (Nick), and Kendrick Johnson; two great-grandchildren, Presley Keaton and Juliet Keaton.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jack N. Smitherman; infant brother, Larry Grove; infant twins, Terry and Larry Denbo; infant daughter, Karen Jo, and granddaughter, Madison Shyanne Keaton.
A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the Frankfort Bible Holiness Church, 1947 W. Barner St., Frankfort, IN, with Rev. Mark Mowery, Dr. David T. Fry, and Rev. Travis J. Johnson officiating.