Betty Dell Webb, age 84, a lifelong resident of Rich Valley, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Holston Health & Rehabilitation Center in Wytheville, Virginia. 

Born on December 14, 1941, in Rich Valley, Virginia, Betty was the daughter of the late Melvin Webb and Violet Buchanan Webb. Betty devoted her life to education, faithfully serving the children and families of Smyth County for an extraordinary 49 years as an educator and guidance counselor—the longest career of service in the history of Smyth County Schools. Teaching was never simply a profession to Betty; it was her life’s calling and greatest passion. She believed in the potential of every child and worked tirelessly to encourage, mentor, and inspire generations of students, leaving a lasting impact that will continue to be felt for years to come. Committed to lifelong learning herself, Betty earned her master’s degree from Radford University. Throughout her distinguished career, she was a respected leader among her colleagues, serving as President of the Smyth County Education Association, where she worked diligently to advocate for educators and public education. She was a tireless voice for local teachers, frequently lobbying for improved salaries, stronger educational funding, and the resources needed to ensure every student had the opportunity to succeed. She also played a vital role in establishing and supporting the Backpack Program within Smyth County Schools, helping provide food to children facing food insecurity so they would have meals to take home over weekends and school breaks. Beyond the classroom, Betty was deeply involved in her community and believed in the importance of civic engagement. She was a recognized member of the Smyth County Democratic Party and remained actively involved in grassroots politics throughout her life, attending regional committee events and supporting Democratic leadership across Southwest Virginia. Whether advocating for students, teachers, or her community, Betty was known for standing firmly behind the causes she believed in. More than her many accomplishments, Betty will be remembered for her unwavering dedication, compassionate heart, and steadfast commitment to making the lives of others better. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom, and the countless students, fellow educators, and friends whose lives she touched will forever be grateful for her guidance, encouragement, and example. 

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her brother, Holmes Eugene Webb and wife Diane Webb. 

Left to cherish her memory are her three nieces and nephews, Annette W. Guttirrez and husband Riley, and Mark Webb and wife Angie, and Michael Webb. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ridgedale UMC and the Holston Home for Children.

 A graveside service will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Ridgedale Cemetery with Pastor Mack Blevins officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the church from 9 until 10:30 a.m. prior to the graveside. 

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Betty Dell Webb.