Bill was born in Athens to the late Jett Smith and Rebecca Smith Godfrey and graduated from Cedar Shoals High School in 1975. After graduation, Bill joined the United States Marines, serving until 1979 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Dekalb Technical Institute. Bill worked many years as a truck driver and was an avid UGA Football fan, enjoyed playing poker and slot machines, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and supporting his fellow veterans.
In addition to his parents, his sister, Julie Smith Poole preceded Bill in death.
He is survived by his children, Regina Crabtree of Social Circle and her husband, Jason Crabtree of Shinnston, WV and Kevin Stapp and his companion, Shannon Daniel of Monroe; former wife, Deborah Smith of Jackson; sisters, Sheryl Spence Johnson of Watkinsville; and Linda Harding and her husband, William of Athens; aunts, Martha Smith Jones of Bogart; and Margie Poole James of Athens; uncle, James Calvin Smith and his wife, Sharon of Stephens; grandchildren, Taylor Powell and her husband, Chance of Social Circle; Caleb Crabtree of Shinnston, WV; and Damian Stapp of Monroe; great-grandson, Carter Powell; many cousins, nieces and nephews.
A gathering of family and friends will be held 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Wednesday, September 27, 2023 in Bernstein Funeral Home, immediately followed by a graveside funeral service in Evergreen Memorial Park with Reverend Dave Smith officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516, or woundedwarriorproject.org.
Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
