Bessie L. Smith Scholarship

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Bessie L. Smith was born in 1904. She lived her entire life of 95 years in the Homer area. She graduated from Homer High School in 1922. She attended Teachers College, (now known as Western Michigan University), and received a teaching certificate. She taught and substituted for many years in the Homer area. Bessie married William Smith and raised five children, all of whom graduated from Homer High School. She continued to substitute teach while raising her family and was involved with young people in the community. Her dedication and commitment to the Homer community was an important part of her life.