Bill was born September 13th, 1938, in Ravenden, Arkansas to Kermit Quentin Smith and Ruby Ann Smith. He graduated from Sloan-Hendrix High School in Imboden, Arkansas in 1956. After working as a machinist for a few years, Bill got his Real Estate Brokers license and started working for the John A. Cooper Co. at Cherokee Village, Arkansas in 1968 and spent the remainder of his life working in sales not only in Real Estate, but in insurance, automotive, and mobile homes as well. He earned many awards and was often the top salesman everywhere he worked. In 1973, he achieved a million dollars in sales in resort lot sales.
Bill was an excellent athlete and earned many accolades throughout his life. He once struck out 17 of 21 batters faced as a pitcher and eventually played semi-pro baseball after not being picked up in trials with the St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed golf, bowling, and horses with his family.
Bill is survived by his wife Mona Bass Smith, and 3 children William R. Smith Jr. (Angie), Brian K. Smith (Gwen), and Amber L. Gallihugh (Angel), along with grandchildren Samantha, Kristina, Breanna, Alexia, Hayley, Brittani, Nathaniel, and Beau and 15 great-grandchildren. Bill is also survived by a brother, Randal Smith (Tempie). He is preceded in death by his parents, Kermit and Ruby Smith.
A celebration of life will be held at College Heights Baptist Church in Poplarville, MS on Monday, December 2nd, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with visitation on Sunday, December 1st, at 6 to 8PM at the White Funeral Home in Poplarville, MS.
Bill will be remembered for his kindness, faith in Christ, and his love of family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
