Elizabeth Jill Smith

With love and deep appreciation, we remember the life of Elizabeth Jill (Bellew) Smith, who passed away on May 4, 2025, after a short battle with cancer. She was 72 years old. Jill was born on January 29, 1953, in Ashland, Kentucky, and throughout her life was known for being compassionate, generous, and possessing a unique sense of humor.

Jill had a passion for nursing and helping others, which she carried out with dedication and heart for more than 50 years. Her nursing career most recently took her to Busch Gardens in Tampa, Jill graduated from Huntington East High School, earned her BSN from Marshall University and later completed her Master’s in Nursing from Bellarmine University, achievements that reflected her drive and lifelong commitment to learning and service.

Jill was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Phyllis (Collinsworth) Bellew of Huntington, WV, and her beloved aunt and uncle, Walter and Clemma (Haney) Short of Ashland, KY.

She is survived by her daughter, Bethany Smith, of Citrus Park, FL, and her life companion, Phillip Ozzie Vinson, of Zephyrhills and Lutz, FL.

Surviving her are also her sisters, Debra Wells of Huntington, WV and Sheri Wallace (Emory) of Proctorville, OH; nieces, Mellisa Clayton (Matthew) of Huntington, WV and Melanie Boss (Randy) of Tarpon Springs, FL; and nephew, Michael Wells (Sonya) of Proctorville, OH. Her great-nieces and nephews include Whitney, Kayla, and Ashley Clayton, and Allan and Alex Boss.

A special place in Jill’s heart was held by Sambora, “Sam,” her long-lived poodle, whose companionship brought her joy over many years.

A celebration of Jill’s life will be held at a later date, where friends and family can gather to honor her legacy and spirit.

The family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice or your local, no-kill animal shelter.

Jill's unwavering commitment to caring for others, her love for her family and her enduring humor will be remembered always. She touched countless lives and will be deeply missed.