In Loving Memory of William "Bill" Homer Smith

1937 - 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William "Bill" Homer Smith, who peacefully left this world in his sleep on March 29, 2025, to be reunited with his late daughter, Tina, and countless cherished family members. He was 88 years old. Born on February 10, 1937, in Clarkesville, Georgia, to William and Cora Smith, Bill, known to many as "Homer," grew up on a farm in rural Georgia. As the first boy among 16 children, he was lovingly doted on by his mother and seven enthusiastic older sisters.

His early years were marked by a blend of schoolwork and farm chores—half the day spent at school, the other half tending to the fields and caring for the livestock. Those formative years shaped the hardworking and resilient man he became. After his time on the farm, Bill's life took him into the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in El Paso, Texas. It was here, thanks to a few friends from Carlsbad, New Mexico, that Bill's life took another important turn. He was introduced to Barbara, a New Mexico native, and together they would raise three wonderful children—Tina, Jon, and Olin.

Bill was a man of many stories. A gifted raconteur, he was always ready with a tale, whether tall, true, or somewhere in between. His storytelling prowess was legendary, and anyone who spent time with him knew that he could spin a yarn like no other—captivating his audience with humor, charm, and a bit of mischief. Bill's natural gift for conversation was matched by his mechanical aptitude. He spent much of his life as a salesman, often in the auto parts industry, using his deep knowledge of mechanics to connect with others. His expertise and passion for teaching led him to hold classes for various businesses, including CarMax during their early years. Though Bill never met a stranger, he particularly enjoyed his later years when he would frequent garage sales. There, he would buy an eclectic mix of trinkets, tools, and treasures, often striking up conversations with anyone who crossed his path.

What truly brought him peace was his love for the outdoors—his garden was a testament to his remarkable green thumb. Bill reveled in spending time outdoors, planting everything from trees to fruits and vegetables, and he loved sharing his knowledge of gardening with anyone eager to learn.

Bill's greatest pride, however, was his family. He was a proud father to his two surviving children, Olin and Jon, and an even prouder grandfather and great-grandfather. Although he lost his beloved daughter Tina at a young age, he was grateful for the chance to share his love with his grandchildren whenever he got the chance - Curtis, Jared (and his partner Sam), Ethan, Daniel, Caleb (and his wife Marah), and Saige. His joy was also immeasurable for his seven great-grandchildren—Nevaeh, Heidi, Maisy, CJ, Beatrix, Remington, and Declan. Bill cherished the time he spent with his family and took immense pride in watching his children and grandchildren flourish.

Bill is survived by his sons Jon (and his wife Tammie) and Olin; his grandchildren Curtis, Jared (and his partner Sam), Daniel, Caleb (and his wife Marah), Ethan, and Saige; and his seven great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his sister, Louise Morrison (and her husband John Morrison), as well as numerous extended family members and friends who were fortunate enough to know and love him. Bill was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Tina, his parents William and Cora Smith, and all but 1 of his siblings.

A graveside service to celebrate Bill's life will be held on Wednesday, April 16th, at 1:15 PM at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, located at 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 75211.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Bill's honor. William "Bill" Homer Smith lived a life filled with hard work, laughter, and loved in the way he knew how. Though he may no longer walk among us, his memory will live on in the stories he told, the lessons he taught, and the family he held so dear. May he rest in peace, knowing he will remain larger than life to many who knew him.

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105
Tel: 1-800-805-5856
Web: http://www.stjude.org/