William Paul Smith, veteran, avid outdoorsman
William “Bill” Paul Smith, 82, of Milton, passed away at home Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. He was born May 6, 1941, in Hanover, Pa., son of the late Roy A. and Dora M. (Zepp) Smith.
Bill was a graduate of Williamson Trade School in Media, Pa. A proud veteran, he answered the call to serve his country in the U.S. Air Force between 1961-65. After his honorable discharge, he enjoyed a lengthy career as a maintenance mechanic for several companies, culminating in retirement after many dedicated years. Bill’s mind was that of an engineer. He was a great mechanic, enjoyed tinkering, and had a need to know how things work. Bill was always the go-to guy when in need of repairs and there was nothing he could not fix!
After retiring to southern Delaware in 1998, Bill enjoyed everything that coastal living had to offer. He was an avid outdoorsman who relished the planning of many cruises with his wife and really enjoyed fishing. Faith was a pillar in his life, and he was a member of St. Jude The Apostle Catholic Church in Lewes. Bill was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and a 4th Degree Knight. More than anything, he treasured time spent with his family. Bill was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. His presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by two brothers, Alfred and Donald Smith. He is survived by his wife, Barbara A. (Leese) Smith of Milton; his three sons, David Smith (Sharon) of Glen Rock, Pa., James Smith (Kimberly) of Littlestown, Pa., and Joel Smith of Hanover, Pa; his two brothers, Ramon Smith (Jean) and Gene Smith (Rita), all of Hanover; his five grandchildren; his five great-grandchildren; his two sisters, Nancy Cole (John) of Venice, Fla., and Margaret Wolford of Gardners, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 22, at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m. Chapel committal services with military honors will follow at 1 p.m., at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Bill’s memory to Compassionate Care Hospice, 416 Williams St., Ste. 101, Milford, DE 19963.
Visit Bill’s Life Memorial at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
